Kwara in Mourning: Abducted Monarch Dies Before Rescue

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

According to Sahara Reporters, news of the monarch’s death was conveyed through an emotional voice message obtained from a member of a community committee that had been actively involved in efforts to secure his freedom.
In the audio message, the committee member informed residents that all attempts by family members, community leaders, clerics, and other concerned stakeholders to rescue the monarch alive had failed.
Addressing the people of Olayinka, the speaker described the development as the will of God and urged residents to accept the outcome with faith.
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 committee member stated that earlier reports and speculations surrounding the monarch’s condition had now been confirmed, despite extensive efforts aimed at securing his release.
He 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. Whether one likes it or not, every soul will return to its Creator, and nobody knows the means through which that return will come.”
He appealed to members of the community to accept the loss, stressing that both Muslims and Christians should regard it as a divine decree.
According to him:
“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 committee member also revealed that arrangements had been made for Islamic funeral prayers, even though the monarch’s remains have not yet 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.”