The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Kwara State, Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu, has expressed deep sorrow over the reported tragic death of the traditional ruler of Olayinka Community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, in the hands of suspected criminals.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Engr. Kawu described the incident as shocking, painful, and unfortunate, extending his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased monarch, the people of Olayinka Community, and all those affected by the tragedy.
He noted that reports indicate that the monarch had been held captive by criminal elements for several weeks, during which members of the community reportedly mobilized and paid a ransom of about N21 million alongside other items demanded by the abductors, only for the revered traditional ruler not to return alive.
According to Kawu, the development underscores the frightening level of insecurity confronting many communities across Kwara state.
“The reported circumstances surrounding the death of Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda are heartbreaking and deeply disturbing. It is painful that despite the sacrifices reportedly made by members of his community in their efforts to secure his freedom, the monarch did not return alive,” he said.
The PDP governorship candidate stated that the death of the traditional ruler is not only a loss to his family and community but also a significant loss to the traditional institution and the people of Kwara State.
“I mourn with the family of the late traditional ruler, the people of Olayinka Community, and all Kwarans over this painful incident. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljanah Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” Kawu stated.
He, however, condemned the worsening security situation in parts of the state, noting that attacks on innocent citizens, community leaders, and traditional rulers have become increasingly alarming.
Kawu called on the Kwara State Government and relevant security agencies to take urgent and decisive steps toward protecting lives and property across the state.
“It is deeply disturbing that communities continue to live in fear due to recurring security breaches. The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, and more must be done to secure our towns and villages from criminal elements,” he said.
Engr. Kawu urged the government to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve collaboration among security agencies, and provide the necessary support and resources required to effectively combat insecurity.
He also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could help prevent criminal activities.
While praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased monarch, Kawu reaffirmed his commitment to advocating policies and measures that would ensure a safer and more secure Kwara State for all.
