Gunmen abduct priest in Okpella, Edo State

 

 

The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, on Thursday confirmed the abduction of a priest, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Adorolo, by unknown gunmen.

Dunia confirmed the abduction at a press conference held in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to the bishop, the priest was kidnapped along the Auchi-Okpella highway on Wednesday evening.

“Rev. Fr. Adorolo was on his way back from Auchi to his parish, St. Benedict Catholic Church, Okpella, when he was abducted by unknown gunmen at the bad spot near Okpella at about 6.00pm on Wednesday evening,” he said.

The bishop condemned the act, saying that the abductors committed an abominable act by keeping a priest who offers selfless service to God and humanity for ransom.

“The abductors have made contact with the church for ransom. The church does not pay ransom, as it is not a profit-making organisation,” he said.

He called on security agencies to ensure unconditional release of the priest.

“The diocese is calling for an unconditional release of the priest. We are holding a mass for the unconditional release of the priest,” he said. punch