Abducted Edo Catholic Priest Freed After 11 Days in Captivity

The Catholic Diocese of Auchi confirmed the release of Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, who was abducted on October 27, 2024. According to a statement by the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Fr. Oyode regained his freedom at approximately 7:00 pm on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, in a village near Ajaokuta, Kogi State.

Fr. Oyode was kidnapped by gunmen during an attack on the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, located in the Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. The attack took place while the priests and seminarians were engaged in evening prayers and Benediction.

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The statement also shared the relief felt by the Diocese’s leadership, with Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, expressing gratitude for the prayers and moral support received from both local and international Catholic communities during the eleven days of captivity.

In light of the kidnapping, the Bishop called on both state and national governments to take stronger actions to address the growing insecurity in Edo North Senatorial District and the wider Edo State. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to ensure citizens can live and work in peace without fear.