A tragic incident occurred at the weekend in Ayeka community, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, after a high chief was reportedly shot dead in the head during funeral rites.
The victim was said to be among the chiefs participating in the traditional burial ceremony when a firearm was accidentally discharged, killing him instantly.
Eyewitnesses and video footage from the event showed that the incident occurred while the high chiefs were performing traditional rites for a deceased colleague.
The ceremony, which attracted family members, community leaders and residents, was abruptly disrupted as panic gripped the gathering following the gunshot.
Sources said the firearm may have been discharged by some of the funeral participants who were reportedly shooting into the air as part of the traditional celebrations.
One of the sources attributed the incident to an accidental discharge caused by the alleged reckless handling of the firearm.
The identities of the deceased high chief and the colleague whose funeral was being conducted were not immediately known as of press time.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, said one person had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Jimoh added that an investigation had commenced, assuring that further details would be made available as the investigation progresses.