Gunmen abduct rector of Catholic seminary in Edo

The Rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East Local Council, Edo State, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, has been reportedly abducted by gunmen.

In a statement yesterday, the Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, confirmed that the incident occurred around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

The attack occurred while priests and seminarians of the Minor Seminary were engaged in evening prayers and Benediction.

“During the incident, the Rector, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, was abducted and taken into the bush. However, the Vice Rector and all seminarians are accounted for, safe, and have been temporarily relocated to a secure area until security around the seminary is enhanced. Unfortunately, there has been no communication with the abductors so far,” the statement read.

Egielewa added that an official report has been filed with law enforcement agencies, and the Diocese is seeking their support in ensuring the safe release of Rev. Fr. Oyode.
He also called on the public to join the Diocese in prayers for the priest’s safe return.