“Edo Priest’s Kidnappers Request ₦200 Million Ransom”

Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, the rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, was kidnapped by armed men during evening mass on Sunday. The kidnappers are demanding a ransom of N200 million for his release....CONTINUE READING>>>

Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, the Diocese’s Director of Communications, confirmed the ransom demand in a message to reporters in Benin City, stating, “It is true.” An unnamed source disclosed that the kidnappers contacted the diocese on Monday, insisting on the payment of ₦200 million for the priest’s freedom.

The source noted that negotiations had not yet begun and was uncertain whether the Catholic community would engage in ransom discussions.The attack led to the abduction of Rev. Oyode, while initially, two students were also kidnapped. The cleric requested that the students be released instead of him, and the kidnappers eventually acquiesced, freeing the two students but taking Oyode with them.

This incident has alarmed the local community, drawing attention to the escalating insecurity in Edo State, which has seen a surge in kidnapping cases for ransom in recent years.In a statement on Monday, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa explained that the kidnapping took place on Sunday, October 27, around 7 pm during evening prayers and Benediction, when the priests and seminarians were attacked.

He reported that while Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode was taken into the bush, the Vice Rector and all other seminarians were unharmed and have been temporarily relocated to a safer location until security measures around the seminary can be reinforced. Unfortunately, there has been no contact with the kidnappers so far.

The Diocese has filed an official complaint with law enforcement and is seeking their help to secure the priest’s release. This situation highlights the urgent need for enhanced security in the area, as residents and religious leaders call for greater government action to address the rising violence and ensure community safety.