The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) has strongly condemned the killing of Oba Kehinde Falodun, the traditional ruler of Agamo Community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, describing the incident as “barbaric” and preventable.
In a press statement issued on February 19, 2026, and signed by its President, Dr. Sylvester Onyia, the U.S.-based group of honorably discharged military veterans of Igbo descent expressed “profound sorrow and outrage” over the monarch’s assassination.
Oba Falodun was reportedly killed in his palace on February 18 by gunmen suspected to be armed bandits. According to the statement, eyewitnesses alleged that the attackers spoke Hausa and operated in a pattern the group linked to violent elements that have carried out attacks in several parts of the country.
Group Links Killing To Kanu’s Detention
AVID referenced the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), arguing that his continued incarceration has worsened insecurity across Nigeria.
The group claimed that Kanu had for years warned about what it described as a coordinated agenda by armed groups to destabilize communities. It criticized the life sentence handed to Kanu and mentioned James Omotosho, who presided over his case, noting that he is from Ondo State.
AVID argued that prioritizing what it called “justice and national security” could have altered the course of events leading to the monarch’s death.
Calls For International Action
The organization demanded:
The immediate and unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu.
An international investigation into armed groups operating across Nigeria.
Public support from Yoruba leaders and South-West governors for Kanu’s release.
Diplomatic pressure from the United States Government and the international community on Nigeria to address insecurity and what it termed “selective justice.”
AVID stated that its members, as former U.S. military personnel, would continue to advocate for what they described as freedom, justice, and security for communities across Nigeria.
The group concluded by insisting that justice for Kanu would contribute to peace and stability in the country.
Authorities in Ondo State are yet to issue a detailed official statement on the circumstances surrounding the monarch’s death as investigations continue.