Banji Olowofela, an octogenarian with a significant business presence in Ekiti State, including a sawmill in Irele Ekiti, has been apprehended by a combined team of security forces from Kwara State. The arrest occurred in Ijowa Ekiti, Ajoni Local Council Development Area, following suspicions linking Olowofela to nefarious activities plaguing the region.
Upon his arrival in Ijowa, Olowofela’s arrest stirred a mix of joy and shock among villagers, who expressed disbelief that he could be associated with the dreaded activities that have terrorized the community. Investigations have revealed that Olowofela and his accomplices are allegedly responsible for the recent killings of three traditional rulers: the Elesun of Esun Ekiti, the Olumojo of Imojo Ekiti, and the Olukoro of Ikoro in Kwara State.
New evidence suggests that the plot to murder the Olukoro of Koro in Kwara State was hatched in a local pub, underscoring the brazen nature of the perpetrators. The Ekiti State Police Command had previously announced the arrest of Babusa Lede in connection to the killings of two traditional rulers in Ekiti State. Lede confessed to his involvement in the attacks, revealing details of the operation and the coercion he faced from his accomplices.
While efforts to apprehend other suspects involved in these heinous crimes continue, the police have emphasized their commitment to combatting kidnapping and violence in the region. The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Dare Ogundare, affirmed that no ransom payment was encouraged during rescue operations for abducted school pupils and teachers, highlighting the collaborative efforts between security agencies and local authorities to ensure the safety of the community.
As investigations unfold and arrests are made, the residents of Ekiti State remain vigilant, seeking justice for the victims and a return to peace and stability in their communities.
