Imeko Afon Community Mourns Loss of Baale.
Ogun State police have confirmed the tragic killing of Ogunleye Olaegbe, the 49-year-old Baale (village head) of Oke-Oha in Imeko Afon Local Government Area, by suspected herdsmen. The attack occurred on Wednesday while the traditional leader was working on his farm.
Residents discovered Olaegbe’s lifeless body in a nearby bush around noon, showing signs of multiple gunshot wounds. Witnesses stated that he appeared to have been dragged from his farm before being fatally shot in the chest.
Speaking on the incident, the Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, described the attack as premeditated and confirmed that a preliminary investigation has been launched. “The community chief was attacked by unidentified gunmen, suspected to be herdsmen, while working on his farm. Upon receiving the report, police and security personnel visited the crime scene and discovered evidence indicating he was dragged and shot before being left in the bush,” Odutola said.
The Baale’s body has been transported to the Ayetoro General Hospital mortuary for an autopsy. Police photographs were taken at the scene to aid the investigation. Authorities have placed the area under heightened surveillance to prevent further violence and ensure public safety.
Residents of Oke-Oha expressed shock and outrage, noting that the incident is part of a troubling pattern of attacks allegedly carried out by herdsmen in the region. Community members are calling for intensified security measures to address the growing insecurity.
Efforts to identify and apprehend the attackers are ongoing, with the police promising swift action. However, the killing has raised concerns about the safety of rural communities in Ogun State, highlighting the need for more robust strategies to combat insecurity.
This incident has drawn attention to the increasing challenges faced by traditional rulers and local leaders in maintaining peace and safety within their communities.
