Gunmen have reportedly abducted Thomas Oyode, a reverend father who serves as rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East LGA of Edo state.
Peter Egielewa, director of communications at the Catholic diocese of Auchi, said in a letter that the rector and other priests were observing their evening prayers and benediction on Sunday evening when the incident occurred.
According to the diocese, gunmen reportedly attacked the priests around 7pm, abducted Oyode and led him into the bush.
Egielewa said that the vice-rector and all the seminarians have been accounted for and have been relocated for safety purposes.
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He said that the diocese has had no communication with Oyode’s abductors, adding that the school has produced over 500 graduates graduates since 2006.
Egielewa added that the case has been officially reported to law enforcement agencies, seeking their assistance in securing the rector’s safe release.
When contacted by TheCable, Moses Yamu, Edo state police spokesperson, said that he would provide further information upon receiving the details.
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“I will get back as soon as I get details please,” he said.
In July, gunmen reportedly abducted Christian Ike, a reverend father at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Ajallii parish, Orumba North LGA, Anambra.
The priest was abducted alongside Ogbonnia Aneke, his driver.
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