After spending 11-day in a kidnapping den, the abducted bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Fr. Thomas Oyode, regained freedoms from the hands of his captive.
The Punch reported that the clergyman was freed from his adductors approximately 7:00 pm on Wednesday, 6 November 2024, in a village near Ajaokuta, Kogi State.
The Director of Communications for the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, noted in a document shared.
However, The New Daily Prime learnt that the incident occurred when the priests and seminarians were observing their evening prayers and Benediction.
The notice read partly, “The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, expresses gratitude to all for the prayers and moral support received during the eleven days Fr. Thomas Oyode was held captive, including from Catholic faithful within and outside the diocese.
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“The bishop also takes this opportunity to call on governments at all levels to address the deteriorating security situation in Edo North Senatorial District and Edo State. Proactive measures must be taken to ensure people can return to their normal peaceful lives in their homes, on their farms, and while travelling.”
It was noted that on October 29, the Nigeria Police assured the members of the public about the safe return of the Rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Ivhianokpodi, Aghenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
During the time he was held captive, the sum of N200 million was allegedly demanded for his release from his abductors.Further details disclosed that the released victim allegedly pleaded with his abductors to free the two students abducted with him and kidnap him instead.
BY Helen Okechukwu
