Kidnapped Kwara monarch dies in captivity after N18m ransom payment

The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Aweda, has reportedly died in captivity after being abducted from his palace on April 17, 2026.

 

It was gathered that the community paid N18 million out of the N21 million ransom demanded by the abductors, alongside two brand new motorcycles and 100 litres of petrol, yet the monarch was not released.

 

Sources said the kidnappers later demanded additional money after delaying his release, raising suspicions within the community that the monarch may have died in captivity.

 

His death was reportedly confirmed in a voice message circulated by a member of a community committee involved in negotiations for his release.

 

In the audio, the committee member said multiple interventions by family members, clerics and community leaders failed to secure his freedom, adding that the monarch had “returned to his Creator.”

 

He urged residents of Olayinka to accept the development as the will of God and pray for the late traditional ruler.

 

The committee also announced plans for Islamic funeral prayers, despite reports that the monarch’s remains had not yet been recovered.