By Tola Gbadamosi

Tragedy struck in the early hours of Saturday when a prominent Fulani herdsman, Aliu Yunusa, was brutally killed by unknown gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

The incident, which occurred near Ilu-Abo junction, opposite the Possibility Church, has sent shockwaves through the local community.

According to the Commander of the Ondo State Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, Yunusa was assassinated by individuals believed to be fellow Fulani herdsmen attempting to rustle his cattle.

“They had earlier kidnapped his wife, but he fought them off and retrieved her.

“Unfortunately, they returned, overpowered and killed him while trying to steal his cows,” Adeleye disclosed.

The attack happened at approximately 6:30 a.m. as Yunusa was on his motorcycle heading to his ranch.

The Amotekun boss added, “A distress call was placed to the Amotekun Corps’ Ogbese outpost by fellow herdsmen who discovered Yunusa’s lifeless body at the scene.

“Upon arriving at the location, Amotekun officers found Yunusa’s body with multiple machete wounds.

“His motorcycle had also been set ablaze by the assailants.”

Akogun Adeleye, however, hinted that efforts are currently underway to track down the perpetrators.

“Our officers are combing the forest in search of these criminals,” Adeleye stated.

He assured the public that the corps, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), would leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to justice.

The deceased herdsman, described as a peaceful and hardworking individual, was a well-known figure in the community.

His death has left family members, including his recently rescued wife, in mourning mood.

Meanwhile, the Amotekun Corps has reassured residents of their commitment to safeguarding lives and property. “We are determined to make our communities safe for all,” Adeleye emphasised.

The late Yunusa’s body has been deposited at the mortuary, and arrangements for his burial are underway, according to Islamic rites.