- Safiu Kehinde
Suspected gunmen have killed the traditional ruler of Agamo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Kehinde Jacob Faledon, after a failed abduction attempt.
The gunmen, according to residents, stormed the monarch’s palace on Wednesday night with the intention of kidnapping him.
Oba Kehinde, however, resisted the attempt.
He was later found be found dead with gunshot wounds few hours after the attack.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Jimoh Abayomi, said the command received a distress report from a community leader shortly after the attack.
“Information reached the division at about 7:50 p.m. from a community leader, High Chief Ajewole Clement of New Town, Itaogbolu, that about six armed men stormed the residence of the monarch and forcibly took him away.
“The victim was subsequently found with gunshot injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene,” Abayomi said.
He disclosed that operatives of the Ondo State Police Command were immediately deployed to the area alongside local security groups.
“The Divisional Police Officer, supported by tactical teams of the command, mobilised officers in collaboration with local hunters, Atuluse Security and Amotekun operatives to comb the surrounding bushes and neighbouring communities,” he added.
The police spokesman maintained that a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing suspects, while surveillance has been intensified across the axis to prevent further attacks.
“Efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the perpetrators of this heinous crime. Monitoring activities have also been strengthened to ensure the safety of residents and prevent a breakdown of law and order,” Abayomi said.