The Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Edo State, has issued a passionate appeal to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to urgently intervene in securing the release of two abducted seminarians who have been held captive for 35 days.
The victims, students of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area, were kidnapped on July 10, 2025, after armed men attacked the institution, killing a Nigerian Civil Defence officer on duty.
A third abducted seminarian was released days later due to injuries, but the remaining two remain in captivity. In a disturbing video circulating online, the minors were seen holding dried human skulls while pleading for funds to secure their release.
In a statement made available to Hobnob News, the Diocese’s Director of Communication, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, said the incident has deeply traumatised the Bishop, clergy, and faithful.
“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,” said Bishop Gabriel Dunia. “I find it difficult to sleep. We have prayed since their abduction, and I call on everyone to pray with us and join in demanding their freedom.”
The Diocese revealed that it has been in contact with the kidnappers, pleading for the release of the boys. It also raised alarm over the growing trend of abductions in Edo North, describing the region as a “convenient operational base” for criminal gangs.
“Our people feel frustrated and helpless,” the statement continued. “This abnormality has become normal. We beg that Edo North be secured so our people can once again live in peace and safety.”
The Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, founded in 2006 for the training of future Catholic priests, has produced over 500 graduates. The Church insists the safety of the abducted children must be treated as a matter of urgency.
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