By Chioma Polok
Gunmen abducted the Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Fr. Thomas Oyode, on Sunday, October 27, during evening prayers. The attack occurred at approximately 7 p.m. in the seminary at Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, located in Nigeria’s Catholic Diocese of Auchi.
ACI Africa reports that according to a statement from the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Fr. Peter Egielewa, the kidnapped rector, was reportedly taken into the nearby bush following the abduction. Fr. Egielewa confirmed that the seminary’s Vice Rector and all seminarians are safe but have been temporarily moved to a secure location due to ongoing security concerns at the institution.
Fr. Egielewa expressed sorrow that no further communication regarding Fr. Oyode’s whereabouts has been received. He assured that an official report has been filed with Nigerian authorities, hoping for assistance in the priest’s safe return.
“The Catholic Diocese of Auchi requests all people of goodwill to join us in prayer for Fr. Oyode’s safe release,” Fr. Egielewa urged.
Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, established in 2006 by Bishop Gabriel Ghiakhomo Dunia, has formed over 500 candidates preparing for the priesthood. Located in a region facing rising security threats, the seminary’s challenges reflect the broader risks faced by religious institutions in Nigeria amid increasing incidents of violence and banditry.



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