Kidnapped Kwara Monarch Oba Salman Aweda Dies in Captivity After Failed Rescue

The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, has died in captivity.

His death was confirmed Monday in an emotional voice message by a community committee member involved in rescue efforts.

The announcement comes weeks after his abductors demanded N21 million, two brand-new motorcycles and a jerrycan of petrol for his release.

— “The will of God has happened”—

In the audio obtained by Sahara Reporters, the committee member told Olayinka indigenes that efforts by family, clerics and stakeholders failed.

“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,” he said.

He confirmed earlier rumours about the monarch’s condition: “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.”

–Funeral prayers without body–

Despite his remains not being recovered, the committee announced Islamic funeral prayers for 8 a.m. at the Epe Muslim community in Lagos.

“As required by Islamic rites… funeral rites can still be performed even when the deceased is not physically present,” he added.

The speaker urged both Muslims and Christians in Olayinka to “accept our fate” as a divine decree.

Kwara State Govt and police have yet to issue an official statement as of press time.