The Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Edo State has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to urgently secure the release of two seminarians abducted from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area.
The minors were kidnapped on July 10, 2025, and have now spent 35 days in captivity. In a recent viral video, they were seen holding dried human skulls while pleading for funds to be raised for their release.
In a statement on Friday, the Director of Communication for the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, said the church, led by Bishop Gabriel Dunia, has been in deep distress since the incident. “As the chief shepherd of the Diocese, I feel personally hurt and disturbed that my seminarians, our children, are living with armed strangers for 35 days now. I find it difficult to sleep these days because of this,” Bishop Dunia said.
According to the statement, three students were abducted during the attack, which also claimed the life of a Nigerian Civil Defence personnel, Mr. Christopher Aweneghieme. One student, injured during the incident, was released on July 18, leaving the other two in the hands of their captors.
The Diocese confirmed ongoing communication with the kidnappers and renewed calls for urgent intervention. It also raised alarm over the rising spate of kidnappings in Edo North, warning that the area has become a safe haven for criminal activities.
“Our people feel frustrated and helpless. This abnormality has become normal, and it appears our people are just left on their own to continue to live in perpetual fear and terror. We beg that Edo North be secured so our people can once again live in peace and safety,” the Diocese pleaded.
Established in 2006, the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary has produced over 500 graduates in training for the Catholic priesthood.
