Palace Invasion: Gunmen Kill Ondo Monarch in Akure
AKURE — Tragedy struck the Agamo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Wednesday night as suspected bandits murdered the traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun, following a botched kidnapping attempt.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:10 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, has thrown the local government into a state of panic and mourning.
According to community and police reports, a gang of about ten heavily armed men stormed the palace, intending to whisk the monarch away into the surrounding forest.
The killing of Oba Falodun marks a dangerous escalation in the security challenges facing Akure North. Previous Incidents: Just weeks ago, bandits attacked the nearby Ayede community and abducted a pregnant woman, who was later released after a ransom payment.
The Resistance and the Killing
Witnesses and family sources provided a harrowing account of the monarch’s final moments. The Struggle: The gunmen reportedly targeted the Alagamo of Agamo at his residence. When the assailants tried to abduct him, the royal father put up a fierce resistance. The “Mystical” Defense: Community sources claimed the attackers opened fire on the monarch, but the bullets failed to penetrate his body. The Fatal Blow: Frustrated by his resistance and the failed gunfire, the bandits allegedly resorted to brute force, striking the monarch on the head and stomach with heavy objects before fleeing the scene.
The monarch’s wife, who narrowly escaped the assault by fleeing into nearby bushes, confirmed that the attackers spoke the Hausa language and entered the community through the Itaogbolu axis.
Police Launch Manhunt
The Ondo State Police Command has officially confirmed the murder. The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, stated that the victim was found a few meters away from his compound with gunshot injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene.
“The Divisional Police Officer, supported by tactical teams, has mobilized officers in collaboration with local hunters and Amotekun operatives to comb the surrounding bushes,” Jimoh said.
Rising Insecurity in Akure North
The killing of Oba Falodun marks a dangerous escalation in the security challenges facing Akure North. Previous Incidents: Just weeks ago, bandits attacked the nearby Ayede community and abducted a pregnant woman, who was later released after a ransom payment. Security Response: While the Ondo State Security Network (Amotekun) recently arrested 12 suspects linked to banditry in the area, residents say the presence of criminal gangs in the forests remains a clear and present danger. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is expected to issue a formal statement as tensions rise among traditional rulers in the state regarding their personal safety.