ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE: HOW ONDO HIGH CHIEF WAS KILLED DURING FUNERAL RITES

By NaijaParrot October 10, 2026 

 AYEKA, ONDO STATE — 

A traditional funeral ceremony in Ayeka, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, turned tragic after a high chief, Akinwalere Akinola, was fatally shot during the burial rites of a fellow traditional titleholder. The incident occurred on October 5, 2026, while chiefs were performing traditional rites for the late Odunwo of Ayeka Kingdom, Omosuyi Obolo. Police have arrested a 40-year-old suspect, identified as Stephen Edokpolor, as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

HOW THE FATAL SHOOTING HAPPENED 

 A video circulating online reportedly captured several men dressed in white traditional attire standing in a procession during the ceremony. The gathering was interrupted by the sound of a gunshot. Akinola was struck and fell to the ground as other participants rushed towards him. Residents said the incident caused panic, bringing the traditional rites to an abrupt halt. The injured chief was reportedly taken for medical attention, but he later died from his injuries. 

 TRADITIONAL GUN SALUTE SUSPECTED 

 According to the traditional ruler of Ayeka, Oba Babatunde Ayeyowa, the shooting was believed to have been accidental. The monarch explained that firing a gunshot as a salute forms part of the traditional farewell rites performed when a high chief dies. He said the person who discharged the firearm was reportedly some distance away from the other participants. The monarch dismissed suggestions of deliberate foul play, describing the incident as a human mistake. However, the precise circumstances of the shooting remain subject to police investigation.

 POLICE ARREST SUSPECT, RECOVER FIREARM 

 The Ondo State Police Command confirmed that a suspect had been arrested in connection with the death. Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said preliminary investigations indicated that Stephen Edokpolor, 40, allegedly shot Akinola with a locally made firearm during the funeral ceremony. According to the police, the firearm was recovered at the scene and secured as an exhibit. The suspect was taken into custody and was assisting detectives with their investigation. The command said the investigation was continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The arrest does not amount to a conviction, and the suspect’s criminal responsibility has yet to be determined by a court. 

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SEEK ANSWERS 

 The tragedy has left Ayeka residents mourning the loss of a respected traditional leader. Ken Obolo, son of the late Omosuyi Obolo and a high chief in the kingdom, confirmed that the suspect had handed himself over to the police after the incident. He also said activities relating to the burial had been suspended in view of the tragedy. Some residents have called for a thorough investigation, while community leaders have urged calm as the police work to establish what happened. Traditionalist Goke Faleye cautioned against attributing the incident to spiritual causes without evidence, stressing the need for a proper investigation. 

 SAFETY QUESTIONS SURROUNDING TRADITIONAL CEREMONIES

 The fatal shooting has renewed attention on the risks associated with handling firearms during public and traditional ceremonies. Although celebratory gun salutes may form part of certain cultural practices, the incident illustrates the potentially fatal consequences of discharging a weapon in a gathering of people. The ongoing investigation is expected to clarify how the firearm was handled, how the bullet struck Akinola and whether any offence was committed. Authorities have not yet announced the final outcome of the investigation.

 NaijaParrot will continue to monitor the case and report verified updates from the Ondo State Police Command. 

 Hear It First! Hear It True!