Abducted Catholic Priest Released, As Bishop Urges FG To Tackle Insecurity

Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, Auchi Catholic Bishop, has urged the Federal Government to tackle insecurity, as Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, a Catholic priest abducted gained freedom.

Oyode was abducted on October 27 in Edo State when priests and seminarians were observing evening prayers.

The gunmen had attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East LGA.

Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi, announced Oyode’s release in a statement on Thursday in Benin.

Egielewa said Oyode was freed at 7p.m. in a village near Ajaokuta, Kogi State.

“The Bishop of Auchi, Most Rev. Dr Gabriel Dunia, thanked all for prayers and moral support during Oyode’s 11-day captivity.

“The Bishop urged government authorities to address the deteriorating security situation in Edo North Senatorial District and Edo State.

“Bishop Dunia appealed to the government to take proactive measures to ensure people’s safety in their homes, farms and during transit,” Egielewa said.