Kwara Monarch Dies After Kidnappers Demand Ransom

The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, has been confirmed dead after his abductors reportedly demanded ₦21 million, two new motorcycles and a jerrycan of petrol for his release.

The monarch’s death was confirmed in an emotional voice message obtained by Sahara Reporters from a member of a committee involved in efforts to secure his freedom.

In the message, the committee member announced the development to residents of Olayinka community, saying several efforts made by family members, residents, community leaders and religious figures to rescue the monarch were unsuccessful.

The committee member described the death as the will of God and urged residents to accept the development.

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, whether when we expect it or when we do not expect it.

“This is to inform the Olayinka community, both male and female, young and old, that our beloved father, His Royal Highness Alhaji Salman Olatunji, the monarch of Olayinka, has answered the call of his Creator. The will of God has come to pass on him.”

The speaker said the rumours surrounding the monarch’s fate had now been confirmed. He said efforts by committees, family members, residents and Islamic clerics did not lead to his safe return.

He further stated, “All the rumours everyone has been hearing from different angles, and 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. Whether one likes it or not, every soul will return to its Creator, and nobody knows the means through which that return will come.”

Community Urged To Accept Fate

The committee member appealed to Muslims and Christians in the Olayinka community to accept the monarch’s death as God’s decree.

He further stated, “Oh Allah, we accept our fate. All the indigenes of Olayinka, both Muslims and Christians, should please accept the will of God.

“Since last week, committees have carried out investigations and made efforts while praying that God would return him home safely. But man proposes and God disposes.

“God has taken the monarch from the people of Olayinka. Please let us accept our fate. On behalf of all Muslims and Christians in the Olayinka community, this is to announce to you that Oba Salman of Olayinka has died and returned to his Creator. May God forgive his shortcomings.”

The speaker further disclosed that members of the Muslim community had concluded plans to hold Islamic funeral prayers for the late monarch, although his body had not been recovered.

He said, “As required by Islamic rites, all members of the Olayinka Muslim community in Lagos are requested to gather by 8 a.m. to perform prayers and Janazah for him.

“Although we have not been able to locate his body, Islam teaches that funeral rites can still be performed even when the deceased is not physically present.

“May God forgive him and be with the people of Olayinka. May God reward all our efforts regarding Oba Salman. We are meeting at the Epe Muslim community.”