FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN
Abductors of the Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, Reverend Father Thomas Oyode, have demanded N200 million for his release.
The kidnappers, according to a source, made contact with the diocese led by Bishop Gabriel Dunia on Monday evening demanding N200 million ransom.
“The kidnappers on Monday evening contacted Auchi Catholic Diocese and asked them to pay N200 million if they want them(kidnappers) to release the kidnapped priest,” the source said.
He said after making their demand, the kidnappers cut the call, waiting for them (Catholic) to commence negotiations.
“As of yesterday, negotiation was yet to commence with the kidnappers, and I don’t know whether the Catholic family will discuss ransom negotiation,” he said.
When contacted, the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Reverend Father Peter Egielewa confirmed the ransom demand in a text message to newsmen.
It would be recalled that Oyode was kidnapped by gunmen at about 7pm on Sunday within the seminary.
The gunmen, after storming the seminary, kidnapped two students after sporadic gunshots, but Father Oyode pleaded with them to free the students and instead kidnap him.
The gunmen were said to have heeded the priest’s plea, released the two students and whisked him into the bush.
Confirming the abduction of the priest, the diocese called for prayers for his safe release.
