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By Dayo Johnson, Akure
Authorities have detained ten individuals suspected of orchestrating an assassination attempt on Oba Adinlewa John, the traditional ruler of the Igoba community in Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State.
This incident follows closely on the heels of a violent episode involving another monarch, Oba Moses Bakare, the Onidogun of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area. Prior to the community’s new yam festival, Oba Bakare, his wife, and their son, Prince Victor Bakare, were attacked by angry youths. During the assault, the monarch was physically beaten, his wife was partially stripped, and the crown prince sustained injuries.
Regarding the assassination plot, reports indicate that the assailants, armed with firearms, machetes, knives, charms, and other weapons, invaded the Igoba community around 11:30 a.m., causing widespread fear among residents.
Police sources revealed that the attackers first targeted a female resident, Mrs. Ogunoye Oluomo, inflicting serious injuries and robbing her before advancing to the monarch’s palace where they attempted to assassinate Oba Adinlewa John.
An eyewitness recounted, “Oba Adinlewa John narrowly escaped harm, but the attack threw the entire community into a state of panic.”
State Police Commissioner Adebowale Lawal confirmed the assassination attempt, stating that a tactical unit was promptly dispatched, resulting in the arrest of ten suspects at the scene.
Confiscated from the suspects were two homemade pistols, a single-barrel firearm, live rounds, charms, and various other weapons, according to Commissioner Lawal.
The commissioner added that the suspects have admitted their involvement and will face prosecution once investigations conclude. Efforts are ongoing to capture other members of the group who remain at large.
Security measures have been intensified in Igoba to prevent further violence, with Lawal emphasizing that Ondo State will not tolerate criminal activities.
He reiterated the police command’s dedication to proactive, community-focused law enforcement and warned that anyone challenging the state’s security apparatus will be dealt with decisively.
Those injured in the attack are currently receiving medical care at local health facilities.
Order has since been restored in the Igoba community, with a strengthened security presence ensuring peace and stability.
Prince Shares His Experience
In a separate incident in Idogun, Prince Victor Bakare recounted the harrowing attack on his family. He revealed that his mother was humiliated by being partially undressed and subjected to further indignities, including having urine poured on them by the assailants.
Prince Victor also showed visible wounds he sustained during the assault on the royal family.
Oba Moses Bakare described the attack as a continuation of “unprovoked aggression” from a faction of youths within the community. He condemned the violence as “barbaric and regrettable” but praised the prompt intervention of police and the state security outfit, Amotekun, which helped to quell the unrest before it escalated further.
Reports indicate that the monarch was mobbed and beaten when he attempted to rescue his son from the violent mob in Ishara, and was forcibly taken back to his palace.
Locals attribute the unrest to an ongoing dispute between Oba Bakare and influential groups within the community. A court ruling reportedly prohibits the monarch and certain parties from entering Ishara.
Legal Implications
It was noted that Oba Bakare’s presence in Ishara may have violated the court’s injunction. However, the monarch denied these claims, asserting that he respected the court’s orders and only went to protect his family from harm.
Mr. Omatayo Johnson, the Amotekun Coordinator in the area, stated that the swift response of security forces was crucial in preventing the situation from worsening.
Meanwhile, Ayanlade Olayinka, spokesperson for the state police command, confirmed that the matter is under thorough investigation, assuring that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure justice is served.
Peace and security remain the priority as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.