Edo Priest Freed After Kidnap Ordeal

Edo State Priest Freed by Security Forces

In the evening of Wednesday, November 6, members of the diocese rescued Father Oyode...

Edo Catholic priest Reverend Father Thomas Oyode regains freedom after being kidnapped. Get the latest updates on the rescue operation and the priest's condition.

Reverend Father Thomas Oyode, the Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Edo State, has finally regained his freedom after a harrowing 10-day ordeal in captivity. He was abducted on Sunday, October 27, at 7 pm from the school premises in Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East Local Government Area.

Fortunately, the Edo State Police Command sprang into action, and their efforts led to the arrest of two suspects connected to the abduction. The pressure from the security forces, including air surveillance over the forest where Father Oyode was held, ultimately forced the kidnappers to abandon him along the road.

In the evening of Wednesday, November 6, members of the diocese rescued Father Oyode, bringing an end to his traumatic experience. This positive outcome is a testament to the swift response of the authorities and the community's support.

Similar cases of kidnapped Catholic priests have occurred in other parts of Nigeria, with Reverend Father Mikah Suleiman and Reverend Father Gabriel Ukeh also regaining their freedom after being abducted.

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for Zone 5, Benin, Arungwa Nwazue, has confirmed the successful rescue of the kidnapped Catholic priest, Father Oyode.

According to reports, the kidnappers had initially demanded a staggering N200 million ransom for Father Oyode's release. However, while negotiations were underway, security agencies proactively tracked the priest's location and movements, ultimately leading to his rescue.

Details surrounding the rescue operation remain unclear, including whether any ransom was paid to secure Father Oyode's freedom.