Tension has gripped Asa village in Okelade, Ido Local Government Area, following an alleged attack by suspected armed herders that left a local chief dead.
The victim, Mutairu Oladosu, the Otun Balogun of Oluode Okelade, was reportedly killed while working on his tomato farm.
Witnesses said the attackers stormed the area with over 300 cattle and launched what they described as an unprovoked assault.
Confirming the incident in Ibadan, the Okelade of Okelade, Wahab Olabamiji, said the deceased was on the farm with one of his daughters when he was overpowered by the assailants, who were armed.
He added that one suspect had been arrested and handed over to security operatives for investigation.
The monarch said the community had reported the development to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, amid growing concerns over safety in the area.
Ladoja, who confirmed receiving reports of the attack from community leaders, said he immediately invited the Commissioner of Police in the state, Olugbenga Abimbola, to his palace over the incident.
“I was informed that one Mutairu Oladosu has been murdered by suspected herders in Asa Village in Ido Local Government. I invited the CP to the palace over the incident,” he said.
According to the monarch, the police commissioner confirmed that one suspect is already in custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend others involved.
Ladoja added that the CP assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted and justice served.
He further stated that the police also gave assurances that measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence, vowing that all those connected to the killing would be arrested and prosecuted.
Residents, according to community leaders, now live in fear, alleging that herders not only graze on farmlands but also pose a persistent threat to lives and property.
