Gunmen, on Sunday, October 27, 2024, attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Edo State, during evening prayers, kidnapping the Rector in the process.
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi confirmed that Reverend Father Thomas Oyode, the Rector, was abducted while the Vice Rector and seminarians remained unharmed.
The assailants struck around 7 p.m., disrupting the Benediction service. According to Reverend Father Peter Egielewa, the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Father Oyode was taken into a nearby bush, and his current whereabouts are unknown. The incident raises concerns following recent attacks on clergy in the region.
The seminarians have since been relocated to a secure area as authorities tighten security measures around the institution. The Diocese has reported the incident to law enforcement agencies and is hopeful that Father Oyode will be rescued soon.
No contact, however, has been made with the kidnappers at the time this report was filed.
The Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, founded in 2006 by the Catholic Bishop of Auchi, Most Reverend Dr. Gabriel Dunia, has trained over 500 students to date. The Diocese therefore calls on the faithful and people of goodwill to pray for Father Oyode's safe and swift release.
The public is urged to stay vigilant as efforts to secure the priest's freedom continue.
The Seminary also urges anyone with further/helpful information or inquiries, to contact: Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi on Phone number: 09061843274.
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