Accidental discharge: Man arraigned over death of Ondo high chief during funeral rites

A 40-year old man, Stephen Odokpolo, has been arraigned before an Ondo State Magistrate’s Court for allegedly killing a traditional chief, Akinwalere Akinola, in Ayeka community, Okitipupa Local Government area.

Odokpolo faces a one-count murder charge over the incident, which allegedly occurred during the burial rites of a fellow traditional ruler on October 5, 2026.

According to the prosecutor, Inspector D.O Ifidon he allegedly shot the 48-year old chief with a gun at about 10:00 a.m. in Ayeka, causing his death.

The offence was said to contravene Section 316 and be punishable under Section 319 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Volume I, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

The prosecutor, Inspector  urged the court to remand Odokpolo at a correctional facility pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

He also said the prosecution was ready to proceed with the remand application.

Defence counsel, Amos Ilori, however, said he had not been served with the application and requested time to file a counter-affidavit after receiving it.

The magistrate, O. Omotosho directed the prosecution to serve the defence and adjourned the case to October 29, 2026.

The court ordered that Odokpolo remain in police custody pending the determination of the remand application.