A Catholic priest in Edo State, Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, has been killed by his captors a few hours after he was kidnapped on Sunday.
Odia was held by gunmen on his way for Sunday Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church, Ikabigbo Community in the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi confirmed the death of the priest a few hours after the news of his kidnap.
The statement, signed by the Director of Social Communications of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa.
It 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.”