Ondo Monarch Condemns Attack on Ipele-Owo Community
Residents of Ipele-Owo in the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State have shared their experiences following a violent attack that occurred on New Year’s Eve. The incident, which was described as an attempted abduction of the traditional ruler, left the community in shock and fear.
The attack took place around 10 p.m., when armed men stormed the town, firing shots into the air and setting a nearby police station on fire. This act forced both residents and police officers to flee the area, creating chaos and panic among the people.
An eyewitness reported that approximately 20 armed individuals, riding motorcycles, entered the town while many residents were preparing for crossover church services. The sudden invasion prompted people to seek safety by running into nearby bushes. One resident, identified only as Kunle, stated that the attackers were heading towards the palace with the intention of abducting the monarch. He also mentioned that the police station was targeted due to its proximity to the royal residence.
Kunle added that the swift actions of security operatives prevented the attackers from reaching the palace, ensuring the safety of the monarch. Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described the event as terrifying, highlighting the fear and confusion that gripped the community during the attack.
Olowo of Owo Calls for Vigilance
In response to the incident, the Olowo of Owo Kingdom and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, issued a statement urging residents to remain vigilant. In a statement released through his Special Assistant on Media, Sam Adewale, the monarch condemned the attack as “very sad and condemnable,” noting that it aimed to disrupt peace and spoil the festive atmosphere of the yuletide season.
Oba Ogunoye emphasized that no lives were lost in the incident, which he considered a major relief despite the destruction of property. He expressed solidarity with the monarch of Ipele, the Nigeria Police Force, and the entire community, assuring them of his full support during this difficult time.
The monarch encouraged citizens to be security-conscious and proactive, advising them to report any suspicious movements or unfamiliar faces to the nearest security agency or trusted community leaders. He stressed the importance of community cooperation with security agencies, stating that collective responsibility is the most effective strategy against crime.
Police Response and Investigation
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, vowed to take action against the perpetrators of the attack. He visited the affected police station along with other officers, affirming that no lives were lost and no church was destroyed during the incident.
Lawal explained that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had convened a meeting with security chiefs, including the police, military, DSS, NSCDC, and Amotekun Corps, to assess the situation. He stated that strategies would be developed to prevent such attacks from occurring again in the state.
He also addressed rumors circulating on social media, clarifying that no lives were lost and no churches were attacked. “We are going to ensure that the perpetrators of this cowardly attack do not escape justice,” he said. He added that the investigation was ongoing, and it was too early to conclude whether the attackers were terrorists.
Governor’s Response and Security Measures
Following the attack, Governor Aiyedatiwa explained that the incident occurred while many residents were attending night services to usher in 2026. Upon receiving the report, he immediately contacted the police and the Brigade Commander of the army, instructing that security personnel be deployed to support officers on patrol and protect residents.
Aiyedatiwa directed intensified patrols across communities and forest areas, emphasizing that security remains a 24-hour responsibility, particularly during festive periods. He noted that security operatives, including members of the Joint Operations Task Force and Amotekun Rangers, were already on patrol throughout the state and in forested areas.
