A traditional ruler in Ayeka community, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, High Chief Akinwalere Akinola, was shot dead on Tuesday, October 6, during the burial ceremony of a fellow traditional ruler in the area. The incident occurred when a firearm was discharged during the funeral rites, with the bullet striking Akinola directly in the head, causing instant death.
Shooting During Funeral Rites
According to a community source who spoke anonymously with The Punch, as reported on Wednesday, October 7, the firearm went off while traditional rulers and other community members had gathered to perform funeral rites for their late colleague. The source stated: "During the programme, a firearm was discharged. The bullet struck High Chief Akinwalere directly in the head, resulting in his instant death."
The sudden death sent shockwaves through the community. The exact circumstances that led to the firearm being discharged remained unclear, although some people have attributed the incident to an accidental discharge. Accidental firearm discharges, often referred to by law enforcement and the public as "accidental discharges," occur in Nigeria and remain a concern. However, there is no centrally tracked or officially published nationwide data showing how frequently such incidents occur.
Ondo Police Confirm Death and Arrest
The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the death when contacted. He said one person had been taken into custody in connection with the shooting and that an investigation was already underway. Jimoh stated: "One suspect arrested. Meanwhile, thorough investigation has commenced." No further details about the suspect or the specific nature of the investigation were disclosed.
A trending social media video of the unfortunate incident in Ayeka community was sighted by Legit.ng, although its authenticity has yet to be independently verified.
Context of Recent Incidents in Ondo
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a military aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. Subsequently, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) released the names of the 25 personnel who lost their lives when its 931 aircraft plunged into the swamps. In a statement, Ehimen Ejodame, director of public relations and information at NAF, said Sunday Aneke, chief of air staff (CAS), described the incident as a deeply painful moment for the air force and the nation. He disclosed that the aircraft had 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers, adding that no survivors had been found.
The investigation into the shooting of High Chief Akinola is ongoing, with one suspect in custody, as the community mourns the loss of its traditional ruler.
