A traditional ruler in Ayeka, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, High Chief Akinwalere Akinola, has been shot dead during the burial ceremony of a fellow traditional ruler.
Drivetvnews gathered that the incident occurred on Tuesday while traditional rulers and members of the community were participating in funeral rites for their late colleague.
During the ceremony, a firearm was discharged and the bullet reportedly struck Akinola in the head, killing him instantly.
A video showing the incident later circulated on social media.
A community source, who spoke anonymously, said the circumstances surrounding the firearm discharge remained unclear.
The source said, “During the programme, a firearm was discharged. The bullet struck High Chief Akinwalere directly in the head, resulting in his instant death.”
The shooting reportedly caused confusion within the community as residents struggled to understand how the incident occurred.
The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident.
Jimoh said one suspect had been arrested while police had commenced a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the traditional ruler’s death.
