A brazen attack on a Catholic church in Edo State has resulted in the abduction of a priest and seminarian, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. Hobnob News reports on the unfolding situation, including the death of a suspect and the ongoing search for the victims.
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Rev. Fr. Philip Ekweli and Seminarian Peter Andrew by suspected herders at St. Peter Catholic Church in Ivukwa community, Etsako East Local Government Area. Police spokesperson Moses Yamu revealed that one suspect was killed and four others were arrested during the operation.
“On March 3, 2025, at about 11:30 pm, the command received a distress call from a concerned citizen that armed men, suspected to be herdsmen, stormed St. Peter Catholic Church in Ivukwa, Etsako East LGA, and abducted Rev. Fr. Philip Ekweli and Seminarian Peter Andrew,” Yamu stated.
Police, in collaboration with vigilantes and hunters, engaged the attackers in a gun duel, resulting in the death of one suspect. Items recovered from the scene include cash, phones, and a dagger. The arrested suspects have been identified as Murtala Ibrahim (32), Joshua Joseph (31), Sadiq Sheidu (35), and Sunday Bulus (28).
Commissioner of Police Betty Otimenyin has deployed additional anti-kidnapping operatives and Police Mobile Force personnel to assist in the rescue efforts.
The Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, has condemned the rising attacks on Catholic priests and called on the government to address the security crisis in Edo North. “The Diocese of Auchi announces with sadness that at about 9:30 pm on Monday, March 3, 2025, gunmen violently attacked the rectory and church of St. Peter Catholic Church, Iviukhua-Agenebode, Etsako East LGA,” stated Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communications for the diocese.
The diocese has urged Nigerians to pray for the safe return of the abducted priest and seminarian. As of now, there has been no communication from the kidnappers. The attack has heightened concerns about the deteriorating security situation in the region, once considered peaceful. Hobnob News will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
