Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, a Catholic priest, who was abducted on Sunday by unknown gunmen has been killed by his abductors.
Daily Report Nigeria recalls that Fr. Odia was abducted in Ikabigbo Community, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State while preparing for mass on Sunday morning.
His abduction threw the community into panic, particularly parishioners of the St. Michael Catholic Church, Ikabigbo.
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However, just a few hours after the news of his kidnap filled the air, it was announced that the clergyman had been killed by his abductors.
His demise was confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Auchi via a statement on Sunday evening.
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.”
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