Commotion rocks Ondo community as suspected thief assaults monarch

By Boye Oyeyemi

Tension gripped Ogbagi-Akoko in Ondo State on Thursday after a suspected phone thief allegedly attacked the Owa of Ogbagi, Oba Victor Adetona Ojo, causing panic across the community.

Eyewitnesses said the suspect, identified as Tope Adelani, allegedly assaulted the monarch during a confrontation over a missing mobile phone around 11 a.m. at the palace, leaving residents shocked and raising fresh concerns about security and respect for traditional institutions.

Sources close to the palace disclosed that Adelani was a familiar face who had visited the palace on several occasions prior to the incident, adding that he had earlier gained access to the palace and allegedly stole the monarch’s phone before leaving unnoticed.

In a surprising twist, the suspect reportedly returned shortly after, where he was confronted by the monarch over the alleged theft.

During the exchange, the situation reportedly escalated, with the suspect allegedly attacking the royal father and inflicting injuries on him.

Family members who attempted to intervene were also said to have been assaulted as the palace descended into chaos.

The suspect was eventually overpowered and handed over to the police, while the monarch was rushed to a private hospital for treatment.

Reacting to the development, the Ogbagi Youth Assembly condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of cultural values, and urged residents to remain calm as police investigations continue.