Suspected kidnappers attacked Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State on Thursday night, killing a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officer and abducting three students.
Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa from the Catholic Diocese of Auchi confirmed the incident on Friday, stating that the gunmen struck around 9:00 p.m. He expressed concern over repeated attacks on Catholic institutions, noting this is the second assault on the seminary in just 10 months.
“Ten months ago, a priest was kidnapped. Now, three seminarians have been taken and a civil defence officer killed. A local vigilante member was also injured,” Egielewa said.
He urged all levels of government to prioritise the protection of Catholic Church personnel and facilities.
“We expect prompt and decisive action from security agencies to restore peace and ensure the safe return of the abducted students,” he added.
