A High Chief, Akinwalere Akinola, has been shot dead during the burial rites of a fellow traditional ruler in Ayeka, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident occurred on Monday, October 5, during funeral rites for the late High Chief Omosuyi Obolo (Odunwo) of Ayeka kingdom, when traditional chiefs had gathered to perform rites.
According to eyewitness accounts, a firearm was discharged during the ceremony and the bullet struck Akinola in the head, killing him instantly. A video of the incident circulating on social media showed chiefs lined up for the rites before the shooting threw the gathering into confusion.
Residents described the shooting as an accidental discharge, with some reports linking it to firearms being shot into the air as part of traditional festivities, though the exact identity of the person who fired remains unconfirmed.
The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident on Tuesday and said one suspect has been arrested.
Jimoh said a detailed investigation has commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting and accountability for the use of firearms at the event.
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