On Sunday evening, suspected herdsmen attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, located in Agenebode, Edo State. Around 7 p.m., as priests and seminarians gathered for prayer and Benediction, the attackers stormed the seminary grounds, taking the seminary’s rector, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, and leading him into the surrounding forest.
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi confirmed the incident, releasing a statement titled “Diocesan Minor Seminary Attacked, Rector, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode Abducted.” According to Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, the Diocese’s Director of Communications, this incident has shocked the local Catholic community.
In response, Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 5, Benin, AIG Arungwa Nwazue, announced that he would personally visit Agenebode to assess the situation and support the ongoing investigation. The local police are actively working to gather information and secure the area as the search for Rev. Fr. Oyode continues.
“The Catholic Diocese of Auchi announces that at about 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024, the Priests and Seminarians of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East LGA of Edo State, were attacked by gunmen during their evening prayers and Benediction. In the process, the Rector of the institution, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, was abducted and led into the bush.
“The Vice Rector and all the seminarians are safe and have been temporarily relocated to a secure location until security around the seminary is reinforced. However, no communication has been received from the abductors.
“An official report has been lodged with law enforcement agencies, and we await their assistance in securing the release of our abducted priest.
“The Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary was established in 2006 by the Catholic Bishop of Auchi, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, to train future priests, with over 500 graduates to date.
“The Catholic Diocese of Auchi calls upon all people of goodwill to join us in prayers for the safe release of Fr. Oyode.”
This tragic event has caused concern in the community, as incidents of violence and kidnapping continue to affect local residents and the church. Many are calling for improved security to prevent further attacks.
