FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Catholic Diocese of Auchi has announced the release of the kidnapped rector, Reverend Father Thomas Oyode.
A statement signed by the Director of Communications, Reverend Father Peter Egielewa, said Oyode was released at about 7pm on Wednesday, at a village close to Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
According to the statement, “Father Oyode was kidnapped on the October 27 when gunmen attacked Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area, while the priests and seminarians were observing their evening prayers and benediction.
The statement said the Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Reverend Gabriel Dunia, expressed gratitude to all for the prayers and moral support received in the 11 days that Oyode was held captive, including Catholic faithful within and outside the diocese, as well as security agencies, various vigilante groups and hunters who laboured day and night in search of the priest.
The bishop called on government at all levels to curb the deteriorating security situation around Edo North Senatorial District and Edo State in general.
