By Joy Yesufu
The Rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, has been abducted by gunmen in Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
A statement released on Monday by the Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa said the incident occurred on Sunday, October 27, 2024, around 7 PM.
The statement said gunmen attacked priests and seminarians during their evening prayers and Benediction at the seminary.
“In the process, the Rector, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, was abducted and taken into the bush. Fortunately, the Vice Rector and all seminarians have been accounted for and are safe.
“They have been temporarily relocated to a secure area while measures are being put in place to enhance security around the seminary. Unfortunately, we have not yet had any communication with the abductors.” Rev. Fr. Egielewa said.
An official report of the incident has been filed with law enforcement agencies, and the Diocese is requesting their assistance in securing the safe release of Fr. Oyode.
The statement concluded with a call to the faithful urging all people of goodwill to join the Diocese in praying for the safe and unharmed return of Fr. Oyode.
Established by Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary has been training future priests since 2006, with over 500 students successfully graduating from the institution.
