Residents of the ancient town of Ogbagi-Akoko in Ondo State have expressed outrage following a physical attack on the community’s revered traditional ruler, the Owa of Ogbagi, Oba Victor Adetona Ojo, by a suspected phone thief.
The shocking incident occurred at about 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Eyewitnesses and palace sources said the monarch was allegedly beaten severely by the lone assailant, identified as Tope Adelani.
The attack, described by many residents as both brazen and sacrilegious, reportedly left the royal father with multiple injuries, prompting his immediate transfer to a private hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
According to the Ondo State government-owned publication, Hope Newspaper, initial reports suggest the suspect was not an unfamiliar face at the palace.
A palace source, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the incident, said Adelani was a frequent visitor, a detail that deepens the mystery surrounding his motive.
Sources revealed that the suspect allegedly gained access to the palace around 11:00 a.m., stole the monarch’s mobile phone, and left unnoticed. However, in a surprising turn of events, he reportedly returned shortly afterward, when the situation escalated dramatically.
While being questioned directly by Oba Ojo over the alleged theft, the suspect was said to have suddenly turned violent. In what witnesses described as a shocking and unprovoked assault, Adelani allegedly attacked the monarch, delivering a series of blows that left him visibly injured.
It was gathered that members of the monarch’s family who attempted to intervene were also reportedly assaulted during the melee.
The suspect was eventually subdued and taken into police custody.
The Ogbagi Youth Assembly (OYA), in a strongly worded statement, condemned the attack as unacceptable and contrary to the values and heritage of the Ogbagi people.
“The Ogbagi Youth Assembly stands firmly in solidarity with His Royal Highness, Oba Victor Adetona Ojo, the Odagbaragaja III. We reject in totality any action that disrespects our revered traditional institution,” the statement read.
“What has happened is not only an attack on an individual but an affront to our collective heritage.”
The group also called for calm among residents, particularly urging youths from Egako Quarter and other parts of the community to remain law-abiding and avoid any form of retaliation that could further escalate tensions.
They stressed the importance of unity and restraint, noting that justice must be pursued through lawful means.
Meanwhile, law enforcement authorities have confirmed that the suspect is in custody and that investigations are ongoing.
Police sources, who also requested anonymity as they were not authorised to speak on the matter, said efforts are underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack, including the suspect’s motive and any underlying factors that may have contributed to his actions.
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