Kwara State, Nigeria: The traditional ruler of the Olayinka community in the Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Aweda, has died in captivity after being kidnapped by terrorists on April 17, 2026.
A member of a community rescue committee announced the monarch’s death in a voice message to residents. Okay News reports that the Olayinka community paid an N18 million ($12,000) ransom to the kidnappers out of a demanded N21 million ($14,000).
The kidnappers also received two new motorcycles and 100 liters of petrol from the residents. The committee suspected the traditional ruler was dead when terrorists demanded additional money after community members requested to speak with him.
The committee member 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.”
He added: “This is to inform the Olayinka community, both male and female, young and old, that our beloved father, His Royal Highness Alhaji Olatunji, the monarch of Olayinka, has answered the call of his Creator. The will of God has come to pass on him.”
The committee announced plans for Islamic funeral prayers to be held at 8 a.m. WAT, noting that the monarch’s remains have not been recovered. The source 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.
