Gunmen targeted monarch in failed Gunmen attempt – Ondo residents

Residents of Ipele-Owo community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State have shared harrowing accounts of the New Year’s Eve attack carried out by suspected bandits in the area.

DAILY POST had earlier reported that the assailants reportedly invaded the agrarian community around 10:00 p.m., setting the divisional police station ablaze and firing gunshots that sent residents and on-duty officers fleeing for safety.

Eyewitnesses said the attack occurred as residents were preparing to attend crossover church services, plunging the community into fear and confusion.

One resident, Kunle, disclosed that the attackers were believed to be targeting the palace of the community’s monarch, with plans to abduct him.

“The attack was actually an attempt to kidnap our king. During the operation, the police station, which is located close to the palace, was attacked and burnt.

“Thankfully, the monarch was rescued, and the gunmen could not gain access to the palace,” he said.

He added that security operatives have since taken control of the situation, restoring calm to the area.

Another resident, who requested anonymity, described the incident as terrifying, noting that many residents are still traumatised by the experience.

“It felt like a war situation. They came suddenly and started shooting into the night. People ran into the bush to hide for their lives.

“Later, security personnel arrived. We still don’t know why the police station was attacked,” the resident said.

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, stated that no casualties were recorded during the attack.

In response, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa convened an emergency security meeting in Akure, where he ordered intensified patrols across communities and forested areas of the state.

The governor stressed that security remains a round-the-clock responsibility, especially during festive periods, and assured residents that operatives of the Joint Task Force, the Nigeria Police, and Amotekun Rangers are actively patrolling vulnerable areas to prevent further incidents.

Gunmen targeted monarch in failed Gunmen attempt – Ondo residents