During a visit led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Tuesday, state officials were informed by community members that one of the Ekiti monarchs, who was tragically killed by gunmen, had actively campaigned for the election of President Bola Tinubu.
Mr. Oyebanji’s visit to Esun Ekiti and Imojo Ekiti followed the murders of two traditional rulers: the Onimojo of Imojo Ekiti in Oye Local Government Area and the Elesun of Esun Ekiti in Ajoni, Ikole Local Government Area.
The traditional rulers fell victim to gunmen believed to be herders while returning from a meeting.
During discussions in Esun, a community representative informed the governor’s team that the deceased traditional ruler had sought votes for the All Progressives Congress from the community.
“…it was here,” a woman said, referring to the King’s Court, “where he told us to thumbprint for APC.”
“If they have started killing kings, what is left of our own fate?
READ ALSO: Elderly Woman Laments Rising Insecurity, Seeks End to Killings in Ekiti
“The Bororos are not giving us peace here, they are killing our people anyhow,” she added.
The recent passing of the two traditional leaders serves as a stark reminder of the increasing insecurity not only within Ekiti State but also throughout various regions of the country.
The mounting occurrences of banditry, violence, and abduction underscore the pervasive sense of fear and unpredictability gripping numerous communities.
While communities grapple with the loss of their monarchs, another distressing event unfolded mere hours later.
Bandits launched an assault on a school bus in Emure Ekiti, resulting in the abduction of schoolchildren, a teacher, and the bus driver.
In response, the state government issued a statement asserting its proactive stance in addressing the situation and mobilizing efforts toward the safe rescue of the kidnapped individuals.