By Wesley Omondi
EDO STATE, NOVEMBER 12, 2024 (CISA)- Fr Thomas Oyode, the rector of the minor seminary in Agenegabode, Edo State, Nigeria, has been released after 11 days in captivity.
Fr Oyode, who was abducted on October 27, had bravely offered himself as a hostage to save two seminarians taken by armed assailants who attacked the seminary. His release, announced by the Catholic Diocese of Auchi.
The release of Fr Oyode on November 7 coincidentally aligned with the ninth anniversary of his priestly ordination. Rt Rev Gabriel Dunia, bishop of the Diocese of Auchi expressed immense gratitude to the faithful who offered prayers and support during the tense days of Fr Oyode’s captivity.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by us in prayer and offered moral support during these distressing days,” Bishop Dunia shared in a statement.
Bishop Dunia also used the opportunity to call on government officials to address the escalating security crisis in Edo State and surrounding regions. He expressed concerns about the safety of residents in their homes, farms, and while traveling, urging authorities to implement robust security measures to restore peace and stability.
“It is essential that proactive steps are taken to ensure that citizens can live without fear in their own communities,” he stated.
Fr Oyode’s abduction and release come amid a troubling surge in kidnappings of Catholic clergy in Nigeria. Just a day before his release, on November 6, another priest, Fr Christian Uchegbu from the Diocese of Orlu, was abducted while traveling from Port Harcourt in the Niger Delta region. Additionally, on November 5, Fr Emmanuel Azubuike was kidnapped in the State of Imo, highlighting a worrying pattern of targeted violence against clergy.
The Diocese of Auchi continues to monitor Fr Oyode’s recovery, ensuring he receives all necessary medical attention after his traumatic experience. The release has brought relief but also heightened awareness of the ongoing insecurity faced by religious leaders and citizens alike in Nigeria.
While Fr Oyode’s release is a significant relief, the recent kidnappings of other priests underscore the urgency of addressing security concerns in Nigeria. Church leaders, government officials, and citizens are now collectively pushing for more stringent protections to end the rising threat of abductions in the region.
