Gunmen have abducted and killed Oba Kehinde Jacob Faledon, the traditional ruler of Agamo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The attackers reportedly invaded the monarch’s palace on Wednesday night and forcefully whisked him away before he was later discovered with gunshot wounds near his residence.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, Jimoh Abayomi, said the monarch was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to the police, the incident was reported at about 7:50 p.m. by a community leader, High Chief Ajewole Clement of New Town, Itaogbolu, who alerted authorities that about six armed men stormed the royal residence and abducted the traditional ruler.
“The victim was subsequently found with gunshot injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene,” Abayomi said.
He added that security operatives, including tactical police teams, local hunters, Amotekun personnel, and members of the Atuluse security group, have launched a manhunt for the assailants, combing surrounding bushes and neighbouring communities.
The police assured residents that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible and strengthen security monitoring to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The killing has heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of the state, as authorities continue investigations into the incident.