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Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, a Catholic priest in Edo state, who was abducted on Sunday, June 26, 2022, has been killed by his kidnappers. According to reports, he was kidnapped on his way for Sunday Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church, Ikabigbo, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State. |
News of his kidnap scared the people in the community. Some hours after the announcement of his kidnap, the news of his death circulated in the community.
His death was confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Auchi who added that plans for his burial will be communicated later.
The statement, signed by the Director of Social Communications of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, read in part, “With heavy hearts but with total submission to the will of God, we announce the death of our priest Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, who was killed by his abductors after being kidnapped this morning 26th June 2022 at about 6.30am in his rectory while coming out to go for Sunday Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church Ikabigbo, Uzairue, Edo State.
“Until his death, Fr. Odia was the Administrator of St Michael Catholic Church, Ikabigbo and also the Principal of St. Philip Catholic Secondary School Jattu. He was aged 41. May his soul rest in peace. Burial arrangements will be announced by the Diocese later.”
The rate of insecurity in the country has been alarming for some years now. Kidnapping has become the order of the day as Christian leaders have become their major target.
On June 19, 2022, three persons were killed in a terrorist attack in a church in Roboh village, Kajuru LGA, Kaduna State. About 36 worshippers were reportedly kidnapped by the terrorists.
About a month ago, the Methodist Bishop of Owerri, Dr. Samuel Kanu-Uche, was kidnapped on his way for a farewell visit. He had to pay a ransom of N100 million before he regained his freedom.
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