Gunmen Storm Ondo Palace, Kill Monarch in Brutal Abduction Attempt

Armed assailants have killed Oba Kehinde Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo community, during an attack on his palace in Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State.

The attack occurred Wednesday evening, when approximately 10 gunmen reportedly stormed the monarch’s residence in an apparent abduction attempt. Residents said the assailants confronted the royal family, and when they failed to secure the monarch, they resorted to lethal force.

The Olori narrowly escaped, recounting that some attackers remained at the palace entrance while others entered. “They kept dragging my husband, and I kept shouting for help. Later, they hit something on his head and stomach. He has been killed,” she said.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, spokesman for the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed the incident Thursday, noting that six armed men forced the monarch from the palace before fleeing. The monarch was later found nearby with fatal gunshot wounds.

Police, alongside the Amotekun Corps and local vigilante groups, have launched a manhunt for the attackers. “Surveillance has been intensified, and efforts continue to track and apprehend the suspects. No stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible to justice,” Jimoh stated.

Community leaders and traditional chiefs condemned the killing, describing Oba Falodun as a peace-oriented leader who fostered dispute resolution and development. One leader said the attack has left residents fearful and created a leadership vacuum.

The incident highlights escalating security challenges in Ondo State, where kidnappings and violent attacks in rural areas have risen in recent months.