The Catholic Diocese of Ondo has confirmed that no priest or Bishop was kidnapped after the attack on worshippers at the St Francis Church, Owo, Owo Local Government Area.
The Diocese said it was Pentecost Sunday when every Catholic was expected to be in Church to commemorate the Solemnity.
Its Director, Social Communications, Rev. Fr. Augustine Ikwu, said several were feared dead and others injured while the church was violated during the attack.
He said: “At this point in the history of our dear country Nigeria, we need God’s ultimate intervention to restore peace and tranquillity.
“Meanwhile, all the Priests and Bishop in the parish are safe and none was kidnapped as the social media has it.
“We turn to God to console the families of those whose lives were lost to this distressing incident, and we pray for the departed souls to rest in peace.
“The Bishop appeals that we remain calm, be law abiding and pray for peace an normalcy to return to our community, State and country.”