Daughter of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Afenifere leader, Funke Olakunrin was on Friday shot dead by unknown gunmen.
It was gathered that the incident happened in Kajola along Akure- Ondo expressway.
Our correspondent learned that the deceased was attacked alongside other travellers along the road. It was however not clear if it was a robbery or kidnap attempt.The Police Public Relations Officer , Femi Joseph who confirmed the incident to our correspondent said seven persons were rescued from the gunmen, adding that an individual was still missing as at press time.
” It is true that someone was shot dead. Unfortunately, before we could rush her to the hospital , she gave up.
” It was inform of a robbery or kidnapping but we were able to rescue seven hostages. We are left with one person that we are still looking for.
” We can’t determine those involve in this crime ,maybe when we arrest them, we will know whom they are,” the PPRO said.
However , the Yoruba socio- cultural organisation , Afenifere has confirmed the incident.
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The Publicity secretary of Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin said the 58- year- old woman was heading to Ore from Akure , Ondo State , when she was attacked and shot by those he described as suspected Herdsmen.
He said , “ We have confirmed the death of Mrs. Funke Olakunrin (58), daughter of our leader , Chief Fasoranti.
“ Eyewitness accounts say she died of gunshots from Fulani herdsmen who shot her at Ore junction in Ondo State earlier today.
“ She was coming from Akure when the armed Fulani herdsmen came from the bush to attack her and other vehicles.
“ Her domestic staff in the car with her also sustained gunshots .
“ This is one death too many and a clear we – can – take – it – no – more death .”
Olufunke is the second child of 94- year- old Fasoranti to die . The elder statesman had also lost a daughter, Bunmi, some years ago.Meanwhile, Ondo state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable.
The governor through a statement by the Information commissioner , Donald Ojogo sympathized with Pa Fasoranti over the death, adding that Police commissioner had been ordered to ensure the gunmen are brought to book.
The statement read: “The Ondo State Governor, Akakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN condemna in strong terms, the murder of Mrs Funke Olakunrin, daughter of Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti. This is one death too many. It is unacceptable and condemnable.
“According to the governor, this sad development once again, heightens the level of fear that has pervaded our Nation even as it represents a despicable commentary in all ramifications. To say the least, it represents an unenviable turning point, the depth of everything that is evil.
“On behalf of the State Executive Council, the Governor symphatizes with our foremost leader and indeed the people of the State over this dastardly act .
” However, the governor wishes to appeal to all and sundry to remain calm and allow the Police to unravel the perpetrators of this murder. Already, the Commissioner of Police has been directed to comb all forests of Ondo State to bring to book, these bloodthirsty murderers. There is no hiding place for such in Ondo State.”
