By Samuel Sunday
A man identified as Rotimi Fun, was killed on Tuesday afternoon following an alleged altercation that turned fatal at the annual Ogun Festival celebration in Ado-Ekiti, raising fresh concerns about security and alcohol-related violence during cultural gatherings.
The incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on September 9, 2026, under the bridge along Ijigbo Street, one of the major venues where worshippers and revelers had gathered for the festival.
According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary security reports, Rotimi became involved in a minor disagreement with another man popularly known as “Fuganizer”. Sources said both men were allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time.
The argument reportedly escalated, and the suspect allegedly attacked Rotimi with a broken bottle, inflicting life-threatening injuries. The victim later succumbed to the injuries.
His remains have been deposited at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack. As of press time, he remained at large. Security agencies, including the police, have launched a manhunt to track and apprehend him* for investigation and prosecution.
To forestall further breakdown of law and order, additional security personnel have been deployed to Ijigbo and adjoining areas. Surveillance has also been intensified around festival venues.
Authorities confirmed that the situation remained calm with no reports of reprisal attacks as of Tuesday evening.
The Ekiti State Police Command was yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report, despite efforts to reach the command for confirmation.
The Ogun Festival, celebrated annually by adherents of the Yoruba god of iron and war, typically draws large crowds in Ado-Ekiti. While largely peaceful, incidents of alcohol-induced violence have occasionally marred celebrations in previous years.
Community leaders and security stakeholders are now expected to review safety protocols to prevent a recurrence as the festival continues.
