Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
Tragedy struck the Agamo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Wednesday night as armed men invaded the palace of Oba Kehinde Falodun and killed the monarch in a brazen attack that has left residents in shock.
Attack Inside the Palace
According to accounts from family members and community sources, about 10 gunmen stormed the area through the Itaogbolu axis at dusk. The attackers reportedly opened fire within the palace premises shortly after the monarch returned from a brief outing.
Sources said the assailants initially attempted to abduct the traditional ruler. However, when he resisted, they allegedly assaulted him. Witnesses claimed the attackers fired repeatedly, but when the bullets failed to subdue him, they struck him with weapons before dragging him outside the palace.
A family member disclosed that the attackers were speaking Hausa during the operation and appeared coordinated, suggesting the involvement of an organised criminal gang.
Wife Recounts Ordeal
The monarch’s wife, who narrowly escaped, described the terrifying scene. She said the attackers split into groups — some positioned at the palace entrance while others forced their way inside.
She explained that she fled into a nearby bush while shots were being fired. According to her, the attackers overpowered the king despite his pleas and dragged him away. Moments later, he was fatally wounded.
Daughter Speaks
One of the monarch’s daughters also confirmed that the attackers shot sporadically and physically assaulted her father while attempting to abduct him. She alleged that the assailants were dressed like Fulani herders and spoke Hausa.
The king was later found a short distance from the palace with fatal injuries.
Police Launch Manhunt
The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State described the killing as tragic and confirmed that security operatives have launched an intensive search operation.
In a statement, the Command revealed that officers, alongside local security outfits including Amotekun, hunters, and vigilante groups, have been combing surrounding bushes and communities in a bid to apprehend the suspects.
Authorities assured residents that surveillance has been heightened across Akure North to prevent further violence and restore calm.
The killing of the monarch has thrown the Agamo community into mourning and heightened tension, as residents call for stronger security measures to curb the rising wave of attacks in rural parts of the state.
