The leader of Oyotunji African Village in Beaufort County, South Carolina, Adegbolu Abiogemo Adefunmi, also known as Oba Adejuyigbe Adefunmi II, was allegedly stabbed to death by his sister during a heated argument.
According to ABC News 4, the incident occurred on Monday, July 29, 2024. South Carolina authorities received a report of the stabbing around 2:45 p.m. at the village on Bryant Lane, as stated by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
The 47-year-old victim was taken to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect, identified as Akiba Kasale Meredith, 53, fled the scene on foot but was apprehended shortly afterward. She has been charged with murder and is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center. Meredith’s bond has been deferred.
A spokesperson for the Oyotunji African Village indicated that they are not providing media interviews at this time due to ongoing cultural ceremonies. These ceremonies typically last two to three days.
Adefunmi was fondly remembered by locals, including workers at a nearby gas station who said, “The King would stop by every morning for a cup of coffee—he was a good man and will truly be missed.”
Oba Adejuyigbe Adefunmi II was the current leader of Oyotunji African Village, a cultural and spiritual center for the Yoruba people in America. He succeeded his father, Oba Efuntola Oseijeman Adelabu Adefunmi I, who founded the village in 1970. Under his leadership since 2005, the village has continued to reflect traditional Yoruba culture while embracing modernization.
The case is still under investigation by local authorities.
