Gunmen Abduct Kwara Monarch, Demand N400 Million Ransom

The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, was abducted by armed men in the early hours of Saturday. The kidnappers are reportedly demanding N400 million for his release.

Residents said more than 10 armed men stormed the monarch’s home around midnight, forced the door open, and took him along with one other person. The attackers led both victims into the bush.

Along the way, the second abductee told the gunmen he could no longer walk because he had no shoes and dared them to kill him. The assailants allegedly tied his hands and legs to a tree and continued with only the monarch.

Ifelodun LGA Chairman Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf visited Olayinka on Saturday morning to commiserate with residents. He said the council is working with security agencies to secure Oba Aweda’s release.

We are deeply concerned about this incident, and we are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” Yusuf said.

He added that security personnel, forest guards, and local vigilantes have intensified search operations in surrounding areas to rescue the monarch safely.

The abduction has raised tension in the community, with residents worried it signals renewed insecurity in Kwara South.