Edo Priest Abduction: N200m Ransom Demanded

N200m Ransom for Kidnapped Edo Priest

The kidnappers have demanded a N200 million ransom for Fr. Oyode's release...

Gunmen ambush Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Edo State, abducting Rector Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode during evening prayers. A N200 million ransom is demanded. The seminary, founded in 2006, trains future Catholic priests.

Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, Rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Edo State, was abducted by gunmen during Sunday evening mass on October 27. In a heroic act, Fr. Oyode offered himself in exchange for the release of two initially seized seminarians, and the gunmen complied.

The kidnappers have demanded a N200 million ransom for Fr. Oyode's release, confirmed by Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi. The kidnappers made contact with the diocese on Monday evening, reiterating the ransom requirement. However, as of Monday, negotiations had not commenced, and it's uncertain whether the Catholic community will discuss ransom negotiation.

The incident occurred at approximately 7 PM on Sunday during evening prayers and Benediction attended by priests and seminarians of the Minor Seminary. Following the incident, the Vice Rector and all seminarians were accounted for and relocated to a safe area, while security measures around the seminary were tightened.

Response from Authorities

Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has vowed to capture the gunmen responsible. The Edo State Police Command's spokesperson, Moses Yamu, assured that police efforts would focus on ensuring the safe return of the abducted priest and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Local hunters, vigilantes, and soldiers from a nearby military base have commenced extensive search operations to locate the abductors and secure Fr. Oyode's release.

On Sunday, October 27, at approximately 7 pm, gunmen ambushed the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary during evening prayers and benediction, abducting Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, the Rector. According to Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, the incident occurred while priests and seminarians were gathered in prayer.

The Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, established in 2006 by Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, Catholic Bishop of Auchi, serves as a sacred institution for training future priests. Dedicated to nurturing spiritual growth and academic excellence, the seminary plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of Catholic leaders.