The Catholic Diocese of Auchi announced on Thursday that Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode has been released from captivity after being held by kidnappers for nearly two weeks.
According to a statement by Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Fr. Oyode was freed around 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, in a village near Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
Fr. Oyode was abducted on October 27, 2024, when gunmen stormed the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, Edo State, interrupting the evening prayers and Benediction observed by priests and seminarians.
In the statement, Egielewa conveyed the gratitude of Bishop Gabriel Dunia of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi.
“The Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, extends heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming support and prayers from Catholic faithful both within and outside the diocese during the eleven days Fr. Oyode was held hostage,” the statement read.
Bishop Dunia also used this moment to call on authorities to take urgent action on the region’s worsening security situation.
“The bishop urges government bodies at all levels to address the increasing insecurity in Edo North Senatorial District and Edo State. Proactive steps are essential to ensure that people can live, work, and travel safely,” the statement added.
