Police in Ondo State have arrested ten suspects for allegedly plotting to assassinate the traditional ruler of Igoba community, Oba Adinlewa John.
The suspects, armed with guns, machetes, charms, and other dangerous weapons, reportedly invaded the community around 11:30 a.m. on Friday and unleashed terror on residents.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers first assaulted a woman, identified as Mrs. Ogunoye Oluomo, before storming the monarch’s palace.
“Fortunately, Oba Adinlewa John narrowly escaped the attack, though the incident left the community in panic,” a resident said.
Confirming the incident, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, said a tactical team was deployed immediately after the report was received.
“Our operatives arrested ten suspects at the scene,” he said.
Lawal added that the police recovered two locally made pistols, a single-barrelled gun, live ammunition, charms, and other weapons from the suspects. He noted that the arrested individuals have confessed to their involvement and will be charged to court after investigations are completed.
“We have reinforced security in Igoba to prevent further attacks. Ondo State will not be allowed to become a haven for criminals. Anyone daring the resolve of security agencies will face the full weight of the law,” Lawal assured.
Meanwhile, the state also witnessed another violent incident in Idogun, where the Onidogun of Idogun, Oba Moses Bakare, his wife, and their son, Prince Victor Bakare, were attacked by angry youths ahead of the community’s new yam festival.
Prince Victor said his mother was stripped half-naked and that they were humiliated and beaten.
“They poured urine on us and injured me,” he said, showing his wounds.
Oba Bakare described the attack as “barbaric and unfortunate”, linking it to “unprovoked hostility” from a faction of youths in the community.
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He, however, commended the police and Amotekun for their swift intervention.
Security sources said the clash may be connected to a lingering dispute in the community and a court ruling restricting certain parties, including the monarch, from entering a section of the town.
The police spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
“We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure justice is served,” he said.
Normalcy has since been restored in both Igoba and Idogun communities, with heavy security presence to prevent further unrest.