Tragedy struck Ahungha Village, Agamo Area, in Ondo State on Wednesday evening as suspected gunmen fatally attacked the traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Jacob Faledun, sparking a swift police response and a manhunt across Akure North.
According to family sources, at around 7:10 p.m., at least 10 armed men stormed the monarch’s palace in a reported abduction attempt. The source said Oba Faledun resisted, prompting the assailants to fire multiple shots that reportedly failed to penetrate his body. The attackers then allegedly struck him on the head with a blunt object. His body was discovered later by relatives after the assailants fled.
Eyewitness Account
The monarch’s wife confirmed the attack, revealing that the killers came through the Itaogbolu axis and spoke in Hausa.
“They killed my husband in my presence,” she lamented.
Police Confirm Attack and Launch Manhunt
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the killing. DSP Jimoh Abayomi, the command’s spokesperson, stated that the attack was reported to the division at 7:50 p.m. by community leader High Chief Ajewole Clement. He said six armed men forcibly removed Oba Faledun from his compound before fleeing.
“The victim was later found a few meters away with gunshot wounds and was confirmed dead at the scene,” Abayomi said.
Police, in collaboration with local security outfits including Atuluse Security, local hunters, and Amotekun operatives, immediately launched a combing operation in nearby bushes and surrounding areas to track down the suspects.
“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects. Monitoring and surveillance have been intensified across the area to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further breakdown of law and order,” Abayomi added.
Authorities have urged members of the public with credible information to report to the nearest police station or contact the command directly, assuring that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
