The traditional ruler of Agamo Community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, Kehinde Jacob Faledon, has been shot dead by suspected gunmen who reportedly stormed his palace on Wednesday night.
Faledon was said to have been attacked at his residence in the community near Itaogbolu, where the assailants allegedly attempted to abduct him before shooting him at close range.
Police authorities in the state confirmed the incident on Thursday, describing it as a “heinous crime” and assuring residents that efforts were underway to apprehend those responsible.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said the command received a distress call at about 7:50pm from a community leader, High Chief Ajewole Clement of New Town, Itaogbolu, reporting that armed men had invaded the monarch’s residence.
According to Abayomi, about six armed men forcefully took the traditional ruler away from his palace.
“The victim was later found with gunshot injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene,” he said.
He added that the Divisional Police Officer, supported by tactical units of the command, immediately mobilised to the area in collaboration with local hunters, Atuluse Security outfit and operatives of the Amotekun Corps to comb surrounding bushes and neighbouring communities.
“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 stated.
The killing has heightened tension in the agrarian community, with residents expressing fears over rising insecurity in parts of the state.
Some community members, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, described the late monarch as a peace-loving leader who had been actively involved in efforts to improve security in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, the remains of the monarch had been deposited at a morgue, while security operatives continued a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.
The incident adds to growing concerns over attacks on traditional rulers and community leaders in parts of the country, amid renewed calls for stronger grassroots intelligence and improved security presence in rural communities.
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