Gunmen Assault Catholic Seminary in Edo, Abduct Priest

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers attacked a Catholic seminary in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, abducting Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, the rector of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary.

The attack occurred during evening prayers on Sunday, October 27, 2024. The Catholic diocese of Auchi confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday, indicating that an official report has been filed and law enforcement assistance is being sought to secure the priest’s release.

According to Reverend Father Peter Egielewa, the Director of Communications for the diocese, the attack happened around 7 PM while priests and seminarians were engaged in their evening prayers and benediction. The gunmen reportedly led Oyode into the bush.

Fortunately, the vice-rector and all the seminarians have been accounted for and relocated for safety. However, the diocese has not received any communication from the abductors regarding Father Oyode.

The diocese also noted that the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, established in 2006 by the Catholic Bishop of Auchi, Most Reverend Gabriel Dunia, has trained over 500 priests over the years.