Grief as abducted Kwara monarch dies in captivity

ILORIN — The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, has died in captivity.

His death was confirmed on Monday by a member of a community committee involved in efforts to secure his release.

The announcement came weeks after the monarch’s abductors reportedly demanded N21 million, two brand-new motorcycles and a jerrycan of petrol as ransom for his freedom.

In an emotional voice message obtained by Sahara Reporters, the committee member informed indigenes of Olayinka community that efforts by family members, community leaders, clerics and other stakeholders to secure the monarch’s release had failed.

He 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. Our beloved father, His Royal Highness Alhaji Salman Olatunji, the monarch of Olayinka, has answered the call of his Creator.”

The committee member also confirmed reports that the monarch had died in captivity.

“All the efforts that have been made by family members, residents, committees and Islamic clerics have now led to this moment. The will of God has happened,” he added.

Despite the monarch’s remains not having been recovered, the committee announced that Islamic funeral prayers would be held at 8 a.m. at the Epe Muslim community in Lagos.

According to the committee member, Islamic funeral rites can be performed even when the deceased’s body is not physically present.

He urged both Muslim and Christian members of the Olayinka community to accept the development as the will of God.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kwara State Government and the police had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.