Father Thomas Oyode, Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Agenebode, Edo State, Nigeria, has been kidnapped after offering himself in exchange for two abducted students.
On the evening of Sunday, October 27, armed men stormed the seminary in Etsako East, Edo State, firing shots into the air before kidnapping two students.
Upon hearing the commotion, Father Oyode confronted the intruders and heroically negotiated his own capture in place of the students.
The kidnappers agreed to the exchange, releasing the students and taking Father Oyode into the nearby bush.
Local authorities have launched a manhunt to rescue the priest.
The Diocese of Auchi confirmed that all seminarians, including the vice-rector, are safe and have been temporarily relocated while security is strengthened at the seminary.
Established in 2006 by Bishop Gabriel Ghiakhomo Dunia of the Diocese of Auchi, the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary trains young men for major seminaries and priestly life.
Despite rising security threats in the area, over 500 students have graduated from the seminary, committed to serving their faith.
With inputs from Agenzia Fides
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