Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A funeral ceremony in Ayeka, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, turned tragic on Monday after a traditional High Chief was fatally shot during the performance of funeral rites.
The incident occurred while the High Chief and other traditional leaders were participating in rites being conducted for a deceased colleague.
An eyewitness account said tension suddenly gripped the gathering after a firearm was discharged during the ceremony. The bullet reportedly struck the High Chief in the head, killing him instantly.
Some residents who witnessed the incident described the shooting as an apparent accidental discharge, although the precise circumstances surrounding the firearm discharge had not been fully established as of Tuesday.
Reports from the scene indicated that panic broke out among mourners following the gunshot, bringing the funeral proceedings to an abrupt halt. The identity of the deceased High Chief had not been officially released at the time of filing this report.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Tuesday.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said one suspect had been arrested in connection with the death and that an investigation had commenced to determine what led to the shooting and establish responsibility.
The development has raised renewed concerns about the circumstances surrounding the presence and discharge of firearms during traditional funeral ceremonies.
Police authorities are expected to establish whether the shooting was accidental and determine the circumstances that led to the fatal incident.
Further details, including the identities of the victim and the person whose funeral was being conducted, were not immediately available.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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