By Deborah Nnamdi
Tragedy struck the Agamọ community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Wednesday evening as its traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, was killed by suspected bandits who reportedly stormed his palace.
According to community sources, about 10 heavily armed men invaded the monarch’s residence in what was believed to be an attempted abduction. The attackers were said to have met resistance from the royal father before the situation turned fatal.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, recounted the incident, describing it as horrifying. The source alleged that after several gunshots failed to bring the monarch down, the assailants struck him on the head with a heavy object, leading to his death.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the killing on Thursday, stating that a manhunt had been launched for the perpetrators.
Police spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, said the monarch was later found a few metres away with gunshot wounds and was confirmed dead at the scene.
He explained that security forces responded swiftly following distress calls from the community. According to him, the Divisional Police Officer, alongside tactical teams, mobilised officers in collaboration with local security outfits to pursue the attackers.
Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun, as well as local hunters and members of the Atuluse Security outfit, were deployed to comb adjoining bushes and surrounding areas in a bid to apprehend the suspects, who reportedly fled the scene.
Jimoh assured residents that intensified monitoring and surveillance activities were ongoing across the area to forestall further attacks and maintain law and order. He added that authorities were determined to bring those responsible to justice.
The killing comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked Ayede community, also in Akure North, abducting a pregnant woman, Mrs. Mary Jesulayomi, who was later freed after a ransom was reportedly paid.
Amid rising insecurity in the area, Amotekun recently announced the arrest of 12 suspects allegedly linked to banditry within the local government.
Residents have expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, calling on security agencies to strengthen patrols and restore calm to affected communities.
