Rev. Fr. Thomas Oyode, Rector of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary School in Agenegbode, Edo State, was kidnapped by gunmen on Sunday.

The abductors contacted the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, demanding a ₦200 million ransom for his release.

Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communications, confirmed the ransom demand.

A source revealed that negotiations had not commenced, and uncertainty surrounds the Catholic family’s stance on ransom payment.

Rev. Fr. Oyode was kidnapped at 7 pm on Sunday. Gunmen released two students after the priest pleaded to take their place.