A first-class monarch, in Ondo State, the Owa of Ogbagi, Oba Victor Olasehinde Adetona, has been attacked by a lone assailant in his palace in Akoko North West council area of the state.

The incident has sent shockwaves across communities in the state, coming barely a month after the traditional ruler of Agamo community, Oba Jacob Kehinde Falodun, was murdered in his palace.

Eyewitnesses said the monarch was physically attacked and injured by the assailant, identified as Tope Adelani, who stormed the palace around 11 a.m.

The royal father suffered multiple injuries and was rushed to a private hospital, where he was hospitalised.

Sources said Adelani, a frequent visitor to the palace, had met with the monarch to request employment as a driver. The monarch reportedly told him there was no vacancy but assured him he’d be contacted when an opportunity arose.

Shortly after the interaction, the monarch left for his farm, leaving Adelani in the palace. Trouble started upon his return, as Adelani allegedly trailed him into the palace, seized his phones, and switched them off.

The situation escalated into a violent confrontation, with Adelani attacking the monarch. Members of the monarch’s family who intervened were also assaulted.

A palace source said that the suspect was later overpowered by guards and handed over to the police.

A knife was recovered from Adelani, raising concerns over his motive.

The Ogbagi Youth Assembly condemned the attack, describing it as “unacceptable and contrary to the values and heritage that define Ogbagi people”.

Reacting to the attack, the youths described it as “unacceptable and contrary to the values and heritage that define Ogbagi people.

According to them ” the traditional institution remains a cornerstone of unity and identity, deserving of utmost respect and protection.

“The Ogbagi Youth Assembly stands firmly in solidarity with His Royal Highness, Oba Victor Adetona Ojo, the Odagbaragaja III.

“We reject in totality any action that disrespects our revered traditional institution.

“What has happened is not only an attack on an individual, but an affront to our collective heritage.”

They also used the opportunity to call for calm among residents, particularly urging youths of the community to remain law-abiding and avoid any form of retaliation that could escalate tensions further.

“We are united in protecting our cultural heritage and traditional values. We call on all sons and daughters of Ogbagi-Akoko to support efforts aimed at strengthening security around the palace.

“If adequate measures had been in place, this unfortunate situation might have been prevented.”

Contacted for comments, the state police command spokesperson DSP Jimoh Abayomi, confirmed the attack but said that the incident was not reported at the police station but to the Nigeria Securiry and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC.

Efforts to speak with the the security agency’s spokesperson, Daniel Aidamenbor, on the attack of the monarch, proved abortive.

Meanwhile, the shocking development has thrown the community into fear and anxiety.

Residents have expressed concern over the safety of the traditional ruler.

They have therefore called for improved security within the palace premises across the state. (Text, excluding headline: Vanguard)

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