Kidnapped Rector of minor seminary, Agenebode, Rev. Father Oyode regains freedom

The Kidnapped Rector of Immaculate Conception Seminary, Agenebode, Rev. Father Thomas Oyode, has regained his freedom nearly two weeks after being abducted by gunmen in Ivhianokpodi, Etsako East LGA, Edo State.

The cleric was abandoned in the bush in Kogi State after security forces, including police and other agencies, conducted air surveillance over the forest where he was held, pressuring the kidnappers as operatives closed in.

The abductors had reportedly demanded a ransom of N200 million for Fr. Oyode’s release. However, while negotiations were ongoing, security agencies actively tracked his location and movements. It remains unclear if any ransom was paid.

The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Benin, AIG Arungwa Nwazue, confirmed the priest’s rescue when contacted by Vanguard.

The gunmen had on October 27 attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode, during a prayer session and abducted Fr. Oyode