The traditional ruler of Ahungha Village in the Agamo area of Akure North Local Government, Oba Kehinde Jacob Faledun, was brutally killed by suspected gunmen on Wednesday evening.
The attack has sent waves of fear through the community and raised concerns about security in Ondo State.
A family source revealed that the horrifying incident occurred at about 7:10 p.m., when no fewer than ten armed men stormed the palace in a suspected abduction attempt.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers were heavily armed and acted swiftly, targeting the monarch with lethal force.
In a desperate struggle, the source explained, Oba Faledun tried to resist the assailants. Remarkably, although multiple shots were fired at him, the bullets reportedly failed to penetrate his body.
Despite surviving the gunshots, the monarch was later struck on the head with a hard object during the attack, leaving him gravely injured.
His body was subsequently smuggled out of the palace by the attackers, only to be discovered later by his family after the assailants had fled.
The wife of the traditional ruler confirmed the tragic news, revealing that the assailants came through the Itaogbolu axis and were speaking in Hausa.
She described the terrifying ordeal, lamenting, “They killed my husband in my presence. I could not do anything to save him.”
Her statement underscores the boldness of the attackers and the extreme danger faced by community leaders in rural areas.
In response to the incident, the Ondo State Police Command confirmed the killing.
DSP Jimoh Abayomi, the command’s spokesperson, said the police were alerted around 7:50 p.m. by High Chief Ajewole Clement of New Town, Itaogbolu.
The report stated that six armed men had forcibly removed the traditional ruler from his residence before fleeing the scene.
“The victim was later found a few meters away with gunshot wounds and was confirmed dead at the scene,” Abayomi said.
He further explained that upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer, alongside command tactical teams, immediately mobilized officers to search surrounding bushes and neighborhoods for the perpetrators.
Local security outfits, including Atuluse Security, community hunters, and Amotekun operatives, were engaged to assist with the manhunt.
Security sources indicated that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the suspects.
“Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects. Monitoring and surveillance activities have been intensified across the area to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further breakdown of law and order,” Abayomi stated.
The incident has heightened concerns about the security of traditional rulers and local leaders in Ondo State.
Oba Faledun, who was a respected traditional ruler, played a pivotal role in resolving community disputes and maintaining peace in Ahungha Village.
Residents have expressed deep shock and grief over his death, emphasizing that such attacks undermine local governance and community cohesion.
Community leaders and residents have called for urgent intervention by the state government to protect traditional rulers, who are often targeted due to their perceived influence and authority.
Several locals pointed out that security patrols in rural areas remain insufficient, making leaders vulnerable to attacks by armed gangs.
This attack is the latest in a string of violent incidents targeting traditional rulers in Nigeria.
Experts have warned that without enhanced security measures and community policing strategies, such attacks could escalate, threatening the stability of rural communities.
The Ondo State Police Command has reassured residents that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
DSP Abayomi urged members of the public with credible information about the attack to come forward and assist the police in identifying the attackers.
He emphasized, “We appeal to the public to provide actionable intelligence that could lead to the arrest of those responsible for this heinous act.”
As investigations continue, the tragic death of Oba Kehinde Jacob Faledun serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by traditional rulers in Nigeria.
It also highlights the urgent need for improved security measures in rural communities where armed gangs continue to operate with impunity.
Residents of Ahungha Village have begun mourning the loss of their traditional ruler, holding vigils and calling on the government to strengthen protection for community leaders.
The state government is expected to make a statement regarding compensation for the family and measures to prevent future attacks.
Ireport247news
