Methodist priest kidnapped in Ibadan

Olufemi Atoyebi, Ibadan

A reverend of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Akobo-Ojurin, Diocese of Agodi, Ibadan, Dr. Biodun Ogunbekun, has been kidnapped by five gunmen who traced him to his farm at Kufi area along Olounda-Aba road, Ibadan.

The Diocesan Bishop of the cathedral, Rt. Rev. Amos Ajiboye, said in a press statement he issued on Friday that Ogunbekun was kidnapped around 7pm on Thursday as he was leaving his farm.

He said, “The whereabouts of the priest is still unknown. On behalf of the Prelate of the church, His Eminence, Dr. K. Uche, and the Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev. M.K. Stephen, I appeal to the Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, the state Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to please assist in finding the whereabouts of the minister of God and help release him unhurt.”

While narrating the account of the kidnap, Ajiboye said Ogunbekun was on his farm with two of his staff members at the time. He explained that when he was to leave the farm, a gunman forced his way in as the gate was opened. Four other gunmen also appeared and grabbed Ogunbekun before taking him into the bush.

“We were told that the kidnapers did not come with any vehicle or motorcycle. They tried to take the priest away in his truck but they could not for some reason. They then decided to whisk him away on foot. We have alerted the police and they have visited the farm.”

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