Police are conducting an in-depth investigation over the murder of former Lumbaca-Unayan, Lanao del Sur Mayor Abdulazis Tadua Aloyodan.
A Special Investigation Task Group has been formed to fast-track the investigation. Police are investigating if the killing is election-related or rido (family feud).
Aloyadan was the husband of incumbent Mayor Jamalia.
Investigation said the victim was shot across their house near the municipal hall in Barangay Oriental Beta by gunmen onboard a pickup truck on Wednesday, Feb. 26.
Abdulazis was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead from multiple bullet wounds.
Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. condemned the killing.
"In the face of the senseless and tragic killing of former mayor of the municipality of Lumbaca-Unayan Abdulazis Tadua Aloyodan today, 26 February 2025, I stand in solidarity with his wife Mayor Jamaliah D. Aloyodan and the rest of the family and loved ones, and in collective condemnation in the strongest possible terms of this heinous act of violence."
"I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Aloyodan family, sharing in their grief. I pray that Allah (SWT) grants eternal peace to the soul of their loved one and provides comfort and strength during this difficult time," Adiong said.
'As a dedicated public servant, a political ally and a dear friend, Mayor Abdulazis Aloyodan's untimely death represents not just a loss to his family and friends, but to the Municipality of Lumbaca-Unayan he served with passion and integrity."
"Let me stress that there is no room for violence in our communities and we, including the authorities, need to be more vigilant in maintaining peace and security in our province especially as we welcome the election season. Let us continue to resist normalizing violence and focus on rebuilding a culture that values human life and rights above all," Adiong added.