The Parish Priest of St. George Catholic Church, Omu-Ekiti in Oye Local Council, Revd. Fr. Michael Olofinlade, has been abducted.
Olofinlade was abducted between Itaji and Ijelu-Ekiti, at the weekend, while returning from Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, to his base.
Owajumu of Omu-Ekiti, Oba Adeyeye Ogundeyi, in a statement, said security agencies and local hunters had since been mobilised to go after the abductors to rescue the priest.
Also, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, described the news of the kidnap as unpleasant development.
A statement signed by Director of Social Communications, Revd. Fr. Anthony, stated: “The unpleasant news of the abduction of Olofinlade happened on Saturday, January 14, 2023.
“Olofinlade went for a pastoral assignment outside the parish. His abduction happened while he was on his way back to the Parish at about 6.00 p.m. The place where the Revd. Fr. was abducted was between Itaji-Ekiti and Ijelu-Ekiti in the Oye Local Council of Ekiti State, about four kilometres to his parish headquarters.
“His abductors are yet to make contact with the Bishop or any other person in the Diocese.
“While waiting for the abductors to make contact with the Diocese, Bishop Ajakaye solicits prayers for quick and safe release of Olofinlade for him to return to his pastoral duty-post to continue his service to God and humanity and in the Church.
“With confidence in God and Christ being our strength, wherever God leads us, we follow with joy.”
