The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, has reportedly died while still in the custody of his abductors.
The monarch was kidnapped by armed men who allegedly demanded ₦21 million, two motorcycles, and a container of petrol as conditions for his release.
Community leaders, alongside religious figures and other stakeholders, had been engaged in negotiations aimed at securing his freedom before news of his death emerged.
His passing was confirmed in a voice recording attributed to a member of the local committee handling the situation.
In the message, the speaker said:
“Allah in His mercy said in the Holy Qur’an that we all human beings on earth belong to Him, and to Him we shall return, whether when we expect it or when we do not expect it. Our beloved father… has answered the call of his Creator,” he said.
Following the announcement, the committee urged residents to remain calm and accept the development as the will of God. It also noted that arrangements for Islamic burial rites would proceed, although the monarch’s body had not yet been recovered.
Community sources said ransom discussions were still ongoing when the news of his death broke, with reports indicating that negotiations had not been concluded before the tragic outcome.
