The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Gabriel Dunia, has issued a desperate appeal to President Bola Tinubu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies for the urgent rescue of two seminarians abducted on July 10, 2025. The seminarians were kidnapped during an attack on the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, in the Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
A disturbing viral video has surfaced, showing the two young seminarians surrounded by gun-wielding men. The children are seen clutching what appears to be a human skull, crying, and pleading for their release. Bishop Dunia expressed his deep anguish over the situation, stating that the seminarians have been held by armed captors for 35 days.
In a statement released through the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Revd Peter Egielewa, Bishop Dunia urged the president, the governor, and all security agencies to prioritize the rescue of the abducted seminarians. He also called on the public to join in prayer for their safe return.
One of the three abducted seminarians was released on July 18, 2025, after sustaining injuries, leaving the remaining two in captivity. The Diocese has been in contact with the kidnappers in an attempt to secure the release of the remaining boys.
Bishop Dunia lamented the worsening insecurity in the Edo North zone and the state. He expressed concern that kidnapping has become a common occurrence in the region, leaving residents feeling helpless and living in constant fear. He pleaded for increased security measures in Edo North to restore peace and safety to the community.
