Ondo Police Confirm Killing of Farmer by Gunmen, Investigate Incident

The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the murder of a farmer by unknown gunmen along Agunla Farm Road, in the Ayede-Ogbese area of Akure North Local Government Area.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, stated that the incident was reported to the police around 9:30 p.m. on Monday by a concerned member of the public.

According to preliminary investigations, the victim, identified as Ben Daniels, and another man, James Unekwu, were travelling together on a motorcycle to a camp when they were ambushed by the assailants.

DSP Jimoh explained that while Mr. Unekwu managed to escape the attack, Mr. Daniels was killed. His body was discovered abandoned by the roadside.

Police operatives responded swiftly to the scene, recovering the remains and depositing them at a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

In light of rising tensions, Mr. Unekwu has been placed in protective custody as detectives continue their investigations into a possible conspiracy.

The command has appealed for calm, urging residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. “We ask that members of the public avoid blocking highways or engaging in actions that could disrupt public peace, as this infringes on the rights of other citizens,” DSP Jimoh said. He assured the community that their concerns are being taken seriously and that due process would be followed to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“The Commissioner of Police wants to assure the people of Ondo State that the command remains steadfast in its commitment to fighting crime. Residents are encouraged to go about their lawful activities without fear,” he added.

The incident has sparked outrage in the Ayede-Ogbese community, with youths barricading the busy Akure/Owo highway on Tuesday morning to protest against the persistent violence and killings in the area.