Tragedy struck Agamọ Community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Wednesday evening as the traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, was reportedly killed by suspected bandits.

Sources within the community said the attack occurred when a group of armed men stormed the monarch’s residence in what was believed to be a kidnap attempt. The assailants, said to be about 10 in number, allegedly tried to whisk the royal father away, but he resisted.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity disclosed that the gunmen opened fire during the struggle. When the shots reportedly failed to achieve their aim, the attackers were said to have struck the monarch on the head with a heavy object. He was later found lifeless a short distance from the palace.

Confirming the development on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Mr Abayomi Jimoh, said the command had launched an investigation into the incident. He noted that officers were immediately deployed to the scene following a distress report.

According to him, the Divisional Police Officer, supported by tactical units, mobilised personnel in collaboration with local security groups to pursue the attackers. Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun, as well as local hunters and members of the Atuluse security outfit, participated in search operations across nearby bushes and surrounding communities.

Jimoh stated that surveillance had been intensified in the area to prevent further attacks, assuring residents that efforts were underway to apprehend those responsible. He added that the victim was discovered with gunshot injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene.

The killing has heightened tension in Akure North, coming weeks after suspected bandits invaded Ayede Community in the same council area and abducted a pregnant woman, Mrs Mary Jesulayomi. She was later freed after a ransom was reportedly paid.

In a related development, Amotekun operatives recently arrested 12 suspects believed to be linked to banditry activities within the locality.

Concerned residents have called on security agencies to strengthen patrols and intelligence gathering to curb the rising wave of attacks and restore calm in the affected communities.