The Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan has strongly denied recent allegations made against one of its priests, describing the claims as “entirely false, malicious, and deeply injurious.” The allegation, which aired on Agidigbo 88.7 FM on Friday, May 2, 2025, involved a woman, Kate Odjegba, who claimed she was impregnated by a Catholic priest.
In a press statement signed by the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Omolade, the Church stated that after a thorough investigation, there is no evidence to support the woman’s claims. The Archdiocese disclosed that independent medical tests showed Odjegba had never been pregnant. It also cited previous false claims made by the same woman on other platforms, which were reportedly dismissed by police due to lack of merit and concerns regarding her mental health.
The statement added that the woman’s only recorded interaction with the priest was when she approached him to seek financial assistance. Claims of sexual relations and suggestive messages were described as fabrications.
In response to the broadcast, representatives of the Archdiocese visited Agidigbo FM on May 9 and engaged with both the station and the woman. A pregnancy test was conducted at a facility agreed upon by both parties, and the result was negative.
The Archdiocese expressed deep disappointment in Agidigbo FM for broadcasting the allegation without proper journalistic due diligence. It accused the station of seeking “cheap publicity” and announced that a law firm has been engaged to pursue legal redress.
“The Church will not condone this malicious claim,” the statement emphasized, calling on the public to be cautious about sensationalized information. It also urged media houses to uphold truth, fairness, and professional integrity.
Quoting the Bible, the statement concluded with a call for justice, truth, and peace to prevail. “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.” — Exodus 20:16.
