Kidnappers demand N200 million ransom for abducted Catholic Priest release
Kidnappers demand N200 million ransom for abducted Catholic Priest release
A ransom of N200 million has been demanded by the kidnappers of Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, the Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Agenegbode, Edo State for his release.
Fr. Oyode was abducted on Sunday around 7 p.m. during an armed raid at the seminary, where two students were also taken hostage. In a display of bravery, the priest reportedly urged his captors to release the students and take him instead, given his role as their custodian.
The following evening, the kidnappers contacted the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, led by Bishop Gabriel Dunia, to communicate their ransom demand. Sources indicate that the abductors made it clear that negotiations would not begin until the church agreed to their terms.
As of yesterday, discussions had not yet started, and uncertainty remains regarding whether the diocese will negotiate the ransom.
Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, the Diocese’s Director of Communications, confirmed the ransom request in response to an inquiry, stating simply, “It is true.”
The incident unfolded after gunmen stormed the seminary, firing sporadically before abducting the students and taking Fr. Oyode in their place.
The diocese has since issued a statement calling for prayers for the safe and unharmed return of the priest.
