Gunmen have killed traditional ruler Oba Kehinde Falodun in Agamọ Community, in Akure North Local Government Area, after a failed attempt to abduct him, police say.
Residents said about 10 armed men stormed the palace on Wednesday evening and tried to kidnap the monarch but he resisted, a local source said. The attackers then shot at him several times. When the bullets did not stop him, they struck his head with a heavy object and he died at the scene.
Police confirmed the killing on Thursday, as the spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh said officers found the ruler a few metres away with gunshot wounds after receiving a report of the attack. He said investigators had launched a manhunt for the suspects.
According to the Ondo State Police Command, tactical teams worked with local security groups, hunters and Amotekun operatives to search nearby forests and track the assailants. Surveillance has also increased across the area to prevent further attacks.
The killing follows recent violence in the council area. Weeks earlier, gunmen attacked Ayede Community and abducted a pregnant woman, Mary Jesulayomi, who was later freed after a ransom was reportedly paid. Security operatives later arrested 12 suspects linked to banditry.
Residents say fear is rising and have urged authorities in Ondo State to strengthen security patrols. Police say they will pursue the attackers and bring them to justice.
