Abducted Ekiti Catholic priest regains freedom

Rev. Fr. Michael Olofinlade, the parish priest of St. George’s Catholic Church, Omu-Ekiti, who was abducted on Saturday, has regained his freedom.

Oba Adeyeye Ogundeyi, the paramount ruler, Owajumu, of Omu-Ekiti, disclosed this to journalists on Tuesday in Omu-Ekiti.

According to the traditional ruler, Rev. Fr. Michael Olofinlade was sighted along Itapaji-Ekiti Road after he was released by his abductors.

He noted that the priest was currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital in Ekiti.

Olofinlade was kidnapped on Jan. 14 while returning to his base in Omu-Ekiti after a pastoral assignment in Ado-Ekiti.

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Felix Ajakaye, had earlier solicited prayers from members of the church for the quick and safe release of Olofinlade.

As of the time this report was filed, the police had not made any statements. It is unclear whether or not a ransom was paid before he was released.