By Peter Omopo
Two seminarians of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, remain in captivity 36 days after being kidnapped, Saturday PUNCH reports.
The minors were abducted on July 10 when gunmen stormed the seminary, killing a Civil Defence Corps officer and abducting three students. One of the abductees was later released, but the other two continue to be held by the kidnappers.
A video reportedly released by the kidnappers shows the seminarians surrounded by masked, armed men, appealing to their parents and the public for help in securing their release.
Reacting to the ordeal, the Catholic Diocese of Auchi has called on President Bola Tinubu, Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to intervene.
In a statement on Friday, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Communication for the diocese, said the diocese, led by Bishop Gabriel Dunia, had been deeply traumatized since the video surfaced.
“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. We have been praying since their kidnap and again call on people everywhere to pray with us,” the statement read.
Egielewa added that the diocese has been in contact with the kidnappers, urging the release of the remaining seminarians. He also expressed concern over the increasing frequency of abductions in Edo North and across Edo State, describing the situation as an “abnormality that has become normal.”
“Our people feel frustrated and helpless. We are deeply worried about how this has become the norm, leaving citizens to live in perpetual fear and terror. Edo North must be secured so that people can once again live in peace and safety,” the statement concluded.
