The people of Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, have been thrown into a state of mourning following the shocking death of their traditional ruler HRM, Engr. Michael Oviese, who was allegedly shot by suspected assassins two weeks ago is dead.

According to Punch, the monarch who was shot around his lower abdomen and died on Tuesday in an undisclosed hospital where he had been receiving treatment. He had been attacked by gunmen numbering five at a building along a street near St Michaels College, Oleh, by hoodlums who attempted to dispossess him of his car, as personally drove himself to visit a closed ally in the area.

In the midst of the scuffle, the gunmen shot him in his stomach and fled the scene. It was gathered that the demise of the monarch was being kept from the public for traditional reasons as palace chiefs continue to keep mum over the incident.

“The people of Irri Kingdom are mourning. Our traditional ruler is dead. He died of gun shots’ injuries when he was attacked by suspected hired assassins. Because of traditional rites, his death has not been officially announced.

“Only members of the immediate family are aware of the sad development. He died at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) where has been receiving treatment. His death would be formally announced by the palace in line with the tradition of Irri Kingdom”, the source added.

A source at the Oleh Divisional Police Station confirmed the incident but added that it was only the palace that can announce his death.

When contacted, the spokesman for the Delta State Police Command, DSP Andrew Aniamaka, said he couldnot immediately confirm the traditional ruler’s death as the command had not been briefed.