Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, confirmed the ransom demand, stating, “It is true,” in a text message to journalists in Benin City.
A source, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the kidnappers contacted the diocese on Monday, insisting on the ransom payment in exchange for the cleric’s release. As of yesterday, negotiations with the kidnappers had not yet begun.
During the attack, the gunmen reportedly abducted two students after firing sporadically with , Rev. Fr. Oyode pleading with them to release the students and take him instead.
The assailants complied and released the two students while taking the priest into custody.
In a statement released on Monday, Rev. Fr. Egielewa provided further details of the incident, which occurred around 7 PM on October 27, stating that Priests and Seminarians of the Minor Seminary were attacked during their evening prayers and Benediction.
He noted that all seminarians and the Vice Rector are safe and have been temporarily relocated to ensure their safety, while no communication has yet occurred with the abductors.
An official report regarding the incident has been filed with law enforcement, and the diocese has called on the public to join in prayer for Rev. Fr. Oyode’s safe release.
In response to the incident, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun assured the public that the perpetrators will be apprehended.
A statement from the Edo State Police Command stated that the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 5, AIG Arungwa Nwazue, along with the Edo State Commissioner of Police, visited Agenebode to address the situation.
During their visit, they met with local leaders, including Hon. Benedicta Attoh, chairperson of Etsako East Local Government Area, and various traditional rulers, discussing strategies to tackle insecurity in the area.
AIG Nwazue expressed sympathies and assured the community that the police are committed to rescuing Fr. Oyode unharmed.
In addition, local hunters, vigilantes, and soldiers from nearby military barracks launched immediate search operations in response to the kidnapping.
The police have called for public support to maintain law and order and prevent further crime in the state.