A man identified as Jeremiah Kosesochi Nwoke has reportedly died while allegedly attempting to steal the iconic Agemo statue situated at the Itoro Roundabout in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The incident, which occurred overnight, has shocked residents of the area, as the statue holds deep cultural significance and is strategically located near the ultramodern palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland, the paramount traditional ruler of the Ijebu people.
According to eyewitness accounts, the suspected thief allegedly made several attempts under the cover of darkness to uproot and cart away the statue, which is heavily secured and embedded into the ground. Despite the physical effort required, he reportedly succeeded in uprooting the statue.
However, tragedy struck shortly afterward. The man reportedly collapsed and died at the scene during the process of moving the statue. The exact cause of death remains unclear at this time, but the incident has prompted speculation among locals who view the statue as spiritually significant and protected.
Security operatives and traditional authorities have since cordoned off the area, and investigations are underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The video of the scene has since surfaced on social media, sparking conversations online.
