Kwara Monarch Dies In Captivity Despite Ransom Payment

Blessing Bello, Reporting 

THE Olayinka community in Kwara State has been plunged into mourning following the confirmation that their traditional ruler, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, died while in the custody of kidnappers—despite a ransom package reportedly being delivered for his release.

The monarch, who was abducted from his palace approximately one month ago, was confirmed dead in an emotional voice message circulated among community members.

The announcement came after extensive efforts by family, community leaders, and clerics to secure his freedom proved unsuccessful.

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According to reports, the abductors had demanded a staggering N21 million in cash, along with two brand-new motorcycles and a jerrycan of petrol, as conditions for the monarch’s release.

In a devastating turn of events, the community confirmed that the ransom package had been delivered, yet the monarch perished before he could be freed .

Community in Mourning

A member of the community committee involved in the rescue efforts conveyed the tragic news to residents, urging both Muslims and Christians to accept the development as the will of God.

He quoted the Holy Qur’an, stating: “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”.

The committee member added: “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” .

Confirmation and Funeral Arrangements

Initial reports of the monarch’s death were met with scepticism from authorities, with the Kwara State Police Commissioner describing the information as unverified and the Ifelodun Local Government Chairman stating he had not received official briefing.

However, the Ifelodun Traditional Council later confirmed the tragic development .

The Secretary of the Ifelodun Traditional Council, Elder Chief Omisola Amos Olayinka, lamented the community’s loss: “We paid a huge sum of money including motorcycles and fuel as demanded by them yet the man still died in their custody. We are in a mourning mood now” .

Plans have been made for Islamic funeral prayers (Janazah) to be held in honour of the late monarch—despite his body not yet being recovered . Sources indicate that a recently released hostage from the same kidnap group confirmed the monarch’s death while in captivity .

The tragic incident has intensified concerns over the escalating wave of insecurity and targeted kidnappings of traditional rulers across Kwara State, with over 30 monarchs reportedly fleeing their palaces in recent months .