By Hungah Peter( Siwes student, Federal Polytechnic Ilaro)
Ekiti monarch, Oba Adebayo Fatoba, the Alara of Ara in the Ikole Local Government Area, recounts his chilling encounter narrowly escaping gunmen who tragically killed two fellow monarchs during an attack.
The harrowing incident unfolded as Fatoba, alongside two other monarchs, returned from a meeting in Ekiti State. While Fatoba survived the assault, his companions, the Onimojo of Imojo Ekiti and the Elesun of Esun Ekiti, fell victim to the assailants.
In a compelling narrative to Awikonko TV Live, Fatoba disclosed the community’s efforts to address recurrent herder attacks, with approval from local authorities.
He served as the committee chairman alongside the slain Onimojo, striving to safeguard their communities.
Recalling the ambush, Fatoba described the tense moment when armed attackers halted their vehicle, revealing bruises from the altercation.
Despite the peril, he managed to shield himself from a potential blow, ultimately fleeing to seek help from nearby security personnel.
Addressing speculation about supernatural intervention, Fatoba firmly asserted the role of chance and resilience in his survival. He emphasized the suddenness of the attack, debunking notions of preternatural assistance.
Fatoba’s driver, spared by the assailants, witnessed the tragedy unfold as Fatoba and his companions faced the attackers head-on.
The monarch underscored the chaos and fear permeating the ordeal, highlighting the community’s urgent need for enhanced security measures.
Though one suspect has been apprehended by the Ekiti State Police Command, Fatoba’s testimony underscores the ongoing threat posed by such violence, urging concerted efforts to ensure the safety of all citizens.
