Oba Adejuyigbe Adefunmi II, the monarch of Oyotunji African Village in Beaufort County, South Carolina, has died after being fatally stabbed by his sister during a violent altercation. The incident occurred on Monday, July 29, 2024.
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, authorities were notified of the stabbing at approximately 2:45 p.m. The 47-year-old Oba was found with severe injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later passed away from his wounds.
The suspect, Akiba Kasale Meredith, 53, was identified as the perpetrator. After the stabbing, Meredith fled the scene but was quickly located and apprehended by law enforcement. She has been charged with murder and is currently detained at the Beaufort County Detention Center. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stabbing is ongoing.
In a 2017 interview, Adefunmi discussed his personal life, revealing that he had seven wives residing in different locations, including Canada, Oyotunji, and Virginia. This revelation was part of a broader discussion about his role and responsibilities as a traditional leader.
The tragic death of Oba Adefunmi has shocked the Oyotunji community and beyond, as they come to terms with the loss of their revered leader.