Horror in Ondo: Gunmen Storm Palace, Kill Monarch Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun
Residents of Agamo community in Ondo State have been thrown into shock after gunmen reportedly invaded the palace of a traditional ruler and killed him in a brutal attack.
The monarch, Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun, was reportedly murdered by armed attackers who stormed his palace in what eyewitnesses described as a coordinated ambush.
How the Attack Happened
According to reports, about 10 armed men invaded the palace around 7:10 pm on February 18 in what appeared to be an attempted abduction.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers initially tried to kidnap the monarch but later killed him when the attempt failed.
Sources familiar with the incident said the assailants arrived heavily armed and in a coordinated formation, positioned some men at the palace entrance while others entered inside
They shot him severally and attempted to drag the monarch away from the palace and when their efforts reportedly failed, the attackers allegedly beat the monarch severely, leading to his death.
Wife Recounts Terrifying Moment
The monarch’s wife, Veronica Falodun, narrated the traumatic experience while recalling the events of that night.
She explained that the monarch had just returned from Akure earlier that day and decided to sit outside the palace to rest.
Moments later, armed men stormed the palace.
She said the attackers began dragging the monarch while firing gunshots, forcing her to run for safety.
According to her account, the attackers continued their assault before eventually killing the traditional ruler.
Daughter Describes “Commando-Style” Invasion
The monarch’s daughter, Folayemi, also confirmed the attack, describing it as a commando-style operation.
She revealed that she had stepped out briefly when she saw the armed men approaching the palace.
Fearing for her life, she ran to hide in a neighbouring compound as the gunmen fired several shots.
She said the attackers also inspected the monarch’s vehicle before turning their attention to him.
Police React
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, has vowed that the perpetrators will be arrested.
According to the police chief, security agencies have launched an investigation to track down the killers.
However, reports indicate that no arrests have been made since the incident occurred.
Governor Orders Crackdown
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has also reacted to the killing. Through the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, the governor expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity in parts of the state and ordered security agencies to intensify operations against criminal groups.
Authorities believe that some local collaborators may be involved in recent kidnappings and attacks across the region.
Growing Security Concerns
The killing has sparked outrage among residents and community leaders who say attacks on traditional rulers and rural communities are becoming increasingly alarming.
Security analysts warn that targeted attacks on monarchs could destabilize communities where traditional institutions play critical roles in maintaining order and resolving conflicts.
The Agamo community is now mourning the loss of its traditional ruler while calling on authorities to ensure justice is served.
