Gunmen kill Ondo monarch

The traditional ruler of Agamọ Community in Ondo State, Oba Kehinde Falodun, has been killed by suspected bandits in Akure North.

The incident occurred on Wednesday evening in Akure North Local Government Area when armed men reportedly stormed the monarch’s palace in an attempt to abduct him.

Community sources said about 10 gunmen carried out the attack.

The monarch was said to have resisted the abduction, prompting the assailants to open fire. When the bullets allegedly failed to penetrate, the attackers reportedly struck him on the head with a heavy object, leading to his death.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, said an investigation had commenced and efforts were ongoing to apprehend the suspects.

He stated that the monarch was later discovered a few metres from the scene with gunshot wounds and was confirmed dead.

According to the police, the Divisional Police Officer and tactical teams were immediately mobilised, working alongside local security outfits to comb nearby bushes and surrounding areas.

Operatives of Ondo State Security Network Agency, local hunters and other community security groups were also involved in the search.

Jimoh added that surveillance and monitoring had been intensified across the area to safeguard residents and prevent further attacks, assuring the public that those responsible would be brought to justice.

The killing comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked Ayede Community in the same local government area, where a pregnant woman, Mary Jesulayomi, was abducted and later released after a ransom was reportedly paid.

Following that incident, security operatives arrested several suspects believed to be involved in banditry within the area.

Residents have since expressed growing concern over insecurity in Akure North, urging security agencies to intensify operations and restore peace to affected communities.