The traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, has been abducted by suspected terrorists, who are now demanding a ransom of N400 million for his release.
The monarch was reportedly seized in the early hours of Saturday when more than 10 armed assailants stormed his residence, forced their way into the palace, and whisked him away alongside another individual.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, who arrived around midnight, broke down the door and demanded money allegedly given to the monarch earlier in the day by a group of miners. After collecting the money, the gunmen fled with the traditional ruler and his brother into the bush.
According to accounts from the community and security authorities, the monarch’s brother was later abandoned by the attackers after he reportedly became exhausted and refused to continue the journey, telling the gunmen to kill him if they wished. Instead, the assailants tied him to a tree and proceeded with the monarch.
Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Adekimi Ojo, said security operatives launched an immediate operation following the abduction, leading to the arrest of 42 suspected illegal miners in the area.
“We swung into action using drones and other logistics, and we eventually arrested 42 illegal miners in the community. Investigations are ongoing, and all suspects are currently at the police headquarters in Ilorin,” he said, adding that it was yet to be confirmed if any of those arrested were directly involved in the abduction.
Sources within the community said the kidnappers later contacted residents, demanding N400 million ransom for the monarch’s release.
The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, who visited the community on a sympathy visit, described the incident as unfortunate and assured residents that efforts were underway to secure the monarch’s safe return.
“We are deeply concerned about this incident, and we are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” he said.
He disclosed that security personnel, in collaboration with forest guards and local vigilantes, had intensified search operations across surrounding areas, stressing that community cooperation would be vital in providing intelligence to aid the rescue mission.
Yusuf also urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that authorities were committed to resolving the crisis and restoring peace to the area.
The abduction has heightened tension in Olayinka and surrounding communities, with many residents expressing fears that the incident signals a resurgence of insecurity in Kwara South.
