The recent spate of attacks on traditional rulers across parts of South-West and North-Central Nigeria has sparked renewed concern among community leaders, stakeholders, and citizens over the growing insecurity affecting local communities.
Over the past few years, several revered monarchs and prominent individuals have lost their lives in violent incidents, while others have suffered abductions and attacks, raising serious questions about the safety of traditional institutions.
1. Oba Olatunde Olusola
The Onimojo of Imojo-Ekiti was reportedly killed in January 2024 in Ekiti State after suspected gunmen ambushed his convoy while returning from a security meeting aimed at addressing insecurity in his community.
2. Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin
The Elesun of Esun-Ekiti was killed alongside Oba Olatunde Olusola in the same January 2024 attack in Ekiti State. Reports indicate that two monarchs were lost in a single day, while another narrowly escaped.
3. Oba Sheu Amo
The traditional ruler of Koro in Kwara State was reportedly killed in his palace in February 2024, further heightening fears over the vulnerability of community leaders.
4. Oba A.O. Ojo
Oba A.O. Ojo, the Olukoro of Koro in Kwara State, was reportedly killed in early 2024, while his wife was abducted during the attack.
5. Oba Dada Ogunyanda
The Obalohun of Okoloke in Kogi State was abducted from his palace and reportedly held hostage for 28 days before regaining freedom.
6. Funke Olakunrin
In 2019, Funke Olakunrin, daughter of Afenifere leader Reuben Fasoranti, was shot dead along the Benin-Ore road in Ondo State, an incident that drew nationwide reactions and condemnation.
7. Oba Kehinde Faledun
Most recently, Oba Kehinde Faledun was reportedly attacked and killed in his Ondo State palace on February 18, 2026, according to media reports.
Growing Security Concerns
These incidents have reignited public discourse on the safety of traditional rulers and rural communities across states including Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo. Community leaders, religious figures, and civil society organizations have continued to call on security agencies and government authorities to intensify efforts to combat criminal activities, strengthen intelligence gathering, and protect traditional institutions.
Statements from various public commentators, including Apostle Michael Olowookere, have reflected widespread frustration and concern over what many describe as inadequate responses to repeated attacks on respected community leaders.
Call for Unity and Action
Traditional institutions remain pillars of culture, peace, and grassroots governance in Yoruba land and across Nigeria. The continued targeting of monarchs not only undermines local leadership structures but also threatens social stability.
Stakeholders are urging collaborative efforts between federal, state, and community-based security networks to ensure that such tragic incidents do not continue.
As communities mourn their fallen leaders, the demand for strengthened security architecture and justice for victims remains at the forefront of public discourse.
