Edo Catholics Plead for Rescue as Kidnapped Seminarians Spend 36 Days in Captivity

Concern continues to mount as two teenage seminarians from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, remain in captivity 36 days after their abduction.

The boys were kidnapped on July 10 when gunmen stormed the seminary, killing a civil defence corps officer and abducting three seminarians. While one of the victims was later released, the remaining two have not regained their freedom.

A disturbing video released by the kidnappers shows the masked, armed men surrounding the minors, who tearfully plead with their parents and the public to help secure their release.

The video has sparked renewed outcry from the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, which has now publicly appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to intervene and ensure the safe return of the seminarians.

“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 Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communication for the Diocese, in a statement on Friday.

“I find it difficult to sleep these days because of this. We have been praying since their kidnap. Again, I call on people everywhere to please pray with us.”

Egielewa confirmed that the Diocese has maintained contact with the kidnappers, pleading for the release of the remaining boys.

The cleric also expressed concern over a surge in abductions across Edo North and the wider state, stating that criminal gangs appear to have found a safe haven in the region.

“Coincidentally, since the minor seminary attack, there have been several kidnap cases in Edo North in particular and Edo State in general. 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 are deeply worried about how this abnormality has become normal… It shouldn’t be. We beg that Edo North be secured so that our people can once again live in peace and safety,” the statement added.

As the ordeal stretches beyond a month, the Diocese and local communities continue to pray and call for immediate government and security intervention to bring the abducted seminarians home.