The Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, who was kidnapped by suspected herdsmen in the Etsako East Local Government Area, Edo State, has regained his freedom.
Oyode was abducted when the assailants raided the Catholic Diocese of Auchi on October 27 during the weekend.
The incident reportedly unfolded around 7 p.m. on Sunday during a prayer session and Benediction, a time when priests and seminarians had gathered.
However, the cleric was released on Wednesday night.
Though the church and police have not made any official announcement regarding his release, a Facebook post by a Catholic member confirmed his release.
“Good NEWS, Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi has been released from the kidnappers’ den. Indeed, what God cannot do does not exist. Thank you all for your unrelenting passion for God’s servant and prayers,” the post read.
During the kidnapping incident, Oyode was said to have pleaded with the kidnappers to free the students who were captured with him, and he was abducted instead.
The gunmen were said to have released the two students and went with the Reverend. Two days after his abduction, the kidnappers demanded ₦200 million ransom.
However, it is yet to be confirmed whether ransom was paid for the priest’s freedom.
