A traditional High Chief, identified as Akinwalere Akinola, has been shot dead during the funeral rites of a fellow traditional ruler in Ayeka, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The incident occurred during the traditional proceedings for the deceased colleague, with traditional rulers and other members of the community gathered for the funeral rites.

According to a source in the community, a firearm was discharged during the ceremony and the bullet struck Akinola in the head, killing him instantly.

The circumstances surrounding the discharge of the firearm remained unclear as of the time of reporting. Some residents who witnessed the incident, however, described it as an apparent accidental discharge.

The shooting reportedly caused confusion at the ceremony as mourners and other participants reacted to the sudden death of the traditional title holder.

The identity of the person who discharged the firearm had not been publicly established, while the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting remained subject to investigation.

The spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident and said one suspect had been arrested in connection with the death.

Jimoh added that the police had commenced a thorough investigation to determine what led to the shooting and establish responsibility for the incident.