The Catholic Diocese of Auchi on Monday disclosed that the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode in Etsako East LGA of Edo State, was attacked by gunmen, abducting a Reverend Father.

During the attack which occured at about 7 pm when Priests and seminarians were having a prayer session and benediction, the herdsmen abducted the Rector of the institution, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, and whisked into the bush.

A statement confirming the incident and titled, “Diocesan Minor Seminary Attacked, Rector, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode Abducted” was signed by Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi.

It reads, “The Catholic Diocese of Auchi announces that at about 7pm on Sunday 27th of October 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.

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“However, the Vice Rector and all the Seminarians have been accounted for and are safe and temporarily relocated to a safe area until security measures around the Seminary are tightened.

“Unfortunately, no communication has been had with the abductors yet.

“An official report of the incident has been lodged with the Law Enforcement Agencies and we look forward to their assistance in securing the release of our abducted priest.

“The Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary was established by the Catholic Bishop of Auchi, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, in 2006 for the training of future priests.

“Over 500 students have so far successfully graduated from the church institution.

“The Catholic Diocese of Auchi requests all people of goodwill to join the faithful of the Diocese in prayers so that the abductors release Fr Oyode unharmed”.

Vanguard contacted the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 5, Benin, AIG Arungwa Nwazue on the development and he said he will proceed to Agenebode immediately to ascertain the situation on ground, as part of
investigations into the incident.