The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called for urgent police intervention following the killing of a community leader by suspected armed herders in Oyo State.
The incident reportedly occurred in Asa Village, Okelade, located in Ido Local Government Area, where the victim, 47-year-old Chief Mutairu Oladosu, who held the title of Otun Balogun of Oluode Okelade, was attacked while working on his tomato farm.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants stormed the farmland in large numbers, accompanied by over 300 cattle, and launched an unprovoked attack on the chief.
Confirming the development in Ibadan, the Okelade of Okelade, Oba Wahab Olabamiji, explained that the deceased was on the farm with one of his daughters when the attackers, armed with dangerous weapons, overpowered him. He added that one suspect had been apprehended and handed over to the police.
The monarch further disclosed that community leaders had visited the Olubadan to report the growing insecurity in the area, noting that residents now live in fear due to repeated threats linked to the activities of suspected herders. He stressed that beyond destroying farmlands through grazing, the attackers had become a serious danger to lives in the community.
He said efforts were made to prevent the situation from escalating into wider violence, which prompted the decision to formally report the matter to the Olubadan.
Reacting, Oba Ladoja confirmed that he had been briefed about the killing and had summoned the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, to address the issue.
According to the Olubadan, the police commissioner confirmed that one suspect is currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down others involved in the attack. He assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted and that anyone found culpable would face justice.
Oba Ladoja also stated that the police had pledged to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and ensure the arrest and prosecution of all those responsible.
