The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, has issued a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and Nigerian security agencies to urgently intervene in the rescue of two seminarians who have been held captive for 35 days by armed kidnappers.
The seminarians, students of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, were abducted on July 10, 2025, during a violent attack that claimed the life of a Nigerian Civil Defence officer stationed at the seminary. While one of the three abducted boys was released on July 18 due to injuries, the remaining two minors remain in captivity.
In a statement signed by the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Bishop Dunia expressed deep anguish over the prolonged ordeal. “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,” he said. “I find it difficult to sleep these days because of this. We have been praying since their kidnap, and again I call on people everywhere to please pray with us.”
A disturbing viral video recently surfaced showing the two boys clutching what appeared to be a human skull, crying, and pleading for their release while surrounded by gunmen. The footage has sparked widespread concern and intensified calls for action.
Bishop Dunia condemned the deteriorating security situation in Edo North and across the state, stating, “It appears kidnappers in Nigeria have suddenly found a convenient place of operation in Edo North and Edo State. Our people feel frustrated and helpless. We beg that Edo North be secured so that our people can once again live in peace and safety.”