Kidnapped Professor Olaofe ex-DVC Of EKSU Found Dead

The remains of Professor Femi Olaofe, the former Deputy Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), have been found 20 days after his abduction. The body was discovered buried in a shallow grave along Airport Road, Ado-Ijan, a grim conclusion to an ordeal that began with his kidnapping on July 9, 2024. The tragic discovery was confirmed by security agents during a meeting with Olaofe’s family in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Olaofe, a 79-year-old chemistry professor, was kidnapped from his residence in the Housing Estate on Afao Road, Ado-Ekiti, alongside his security guard. The initial news of his abduction shocked the community and prompted a swift response from local authorities and his family, who were hopeful for his safe return.

Ransom Negotiations and Failed Rescue

Following the kidnapping, the abductors demanded a ransom of N50 million to secure Professor Olaofe’s release. Negotiations ensued, and the ransom demand was subsequently reduced to N15 million. Despite the family’s efforts to meet the kidnappers’ demands, the transaction was never completed, and the professor’s life was tragically cut short.

Family sources revealed that the inability to fulfill the ransom payment led to a devastating outcome. The professor’s death and the subsequent discovery of his body have left his family and the academic community in deep mourning. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised concerns about the effectiveness of security measures and the safety of prominent individuals in the region.

Impact on the Community and Ongoing Investigations

The abduction and murder of Professor Olaofe have sent shockwaves through Ekiti State and the academic community at large. As a respected figure in higher education, Olaofe’s untimely death is a significant loss. His contributions to EKSU and his dedication to the field of chemistry were well-regarded, and his absence will be deeply felt by colleagues and students alike.

In response to the incident, local law enforcement agencies have intensified their investigations to apprehend those responsible for the crime. The discovery of the shallow grave has provided crucial evidence that investigators hope will lead to the capture and prosecution of the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the community continues to call for enhanced security measures to prevent such tragedies from recurring and to ensure the safety of its residents.

Community Leader Confirmed Death Of Prof Olaofe

The President of the Are-Ekiti Progressive Union (APU), Professor Femi Oke, has confirmed the tragic death of a prominent community leader, Professor Olorunfemi Olaofe. Speaking at a meeting with government security agents, Professor Oke expressed his deep sorrow over the incident. He stated, “It is with heavy heart that we announce the untimely death of our Community Leader, Prof. Olorunfemi Olaofe, in our today’s meeting with the security agents of the government. His body was found in a shallow grave along Airport road.”

The discovery of Professor Olaofe’s body has sent shockwaves through the Are-Ekiti community, where he was highly respected. The APU President’s announcement highlighted the gravity of the situation and the profound loss felt by the community. Professor Olaofe’s death is a significant blow to Are-Ekiti, as he was not only a community leader but also a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) of the state-owned university.

Police Confirm Suspects Arrested in Connection with Abduction

The Commissioner of Police, CP Adeniran Akinwale, has confirmed the arrest of several suspects in connection with the abduction and subsequent death of Professor Olorunfemi Olaofe. In a conversation with the Nigerian Tribune on Wednesday, CP Akinwale extended his condolences to the bereaved family and the entire Are-Ekiti community. He assured them that efforts were underway to bring all perpetrators to justice, stating, “Yes, the professor has been found dead and we are doing everything possible to exhume the body for burial.”

CP Akinwale revealed that the investigation suggested an insider was involved in the crime, particularly pointing to the security guard employed by Professor Olaofe. “They (abductors) kidnapped the man with him so that we will not suspect. In the process of rescuing him, we have arrested some people. I can’t say much about the security guard, but at the appropriate time, we will brief the public,” he explained. The police are committed to unearthing the full details of the case and ensuring that justice is served for the tragic loss of Professor Olaofe