Kwara Monarch Dies in Captivity Despite ₦21m Ransom, Motorcycles Paid to Kidnappers

Tragedy has struck the Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State following the death of its traditional ruler, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, while in the custody of his abductors despite the payment of a substantial ransom for his release.

The monarch, who was kidnapped about a month ago by suspected gunmen, was reportedly killed in captivity after his abductors demanded and allegedly received ₦21 million, two brand-new motorcycles and a jerrycan of petrol as conditions for his freedom.

News of the monarch’s death was conveyed to members of the Olayinka community through an emotional voice message from a member of a committee established to coordinate efforts for his rescue.

In the message, the committee member announced that despite weeks of negotiations, prayers and interventions by family members, community leaders and religious figures, the monarch had passed away.

“This is to inform the Olayinka community that our beloved father, His Royal Highness Alhaji Salman Olatunji, has answered the call of his Creator,” the committee member said, urging residents to accept the development as the will of God.

According to the message, various committees and stakeholders had worked tirelessly to secure the monarch’s release, while Islamic clerics and community members intensified prayers for his safe return.

The committee member disclosed that arrangements had been made to hold Islamic funeral prayers for the late monarch, despite the fact that his body had yet to be recovered.

“As required by Islamic rites, members of the Muslim community will gather to perform Janazah prayers for him. Although his body has not been found, Islamic tradition permits funeral prayers in absentia,” he stated.

Sources familiar with the negotiations said the kidnappers had insisted on receiving ₦21 million in cash, two motorcycles and fuel before releasing the monarch.

However, a resident recently freed from captivity by kidnappers in Kwara State reportedly revealed that the monarch had already died while being held by his abductors.

The revelation has left residents of Olayinka in shock and mourning, particularly as many had remained hopeful that the ransom payment would secure his freedom.

Community leaders and residents have described the incident as heartbreaking and have called on security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the abduction and killing.

The death of the traditional ruler adds to growing concerns over insecurity and the increasing wave of kidnappings targeting community leaders and residents across parts of the country.