The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Gabriel Dunia, has called on President Bola Tinubu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and all relevant security agencies to urgently rescue two seminarians abducted from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area. The boys’ ordeal was recently highlighted in a viral video, sparking nationwide concern.
In a statement signed by the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Revd Peter Egielewa, on Thursday, Bishop Dunia expressed deep anguish over the seminarians’ 35-day captivity, urging the public to pray for their safe release.
“As the chief shepherd of the Diocese, I feel personally hurt and disturbed that our children are living under the control of armed strangers. We have been praying since their abduction, and I call on people everywhere to join us in prayer for their safe return,” he said.
The viral footage shows the two young seminarians clutching what appears to be a human skull, crying, and pleading for their freedom while surrounded by gun-wielding men.
The Diocese confirmed that the children in the video are two of the three seminarians kidnapped during the July 10, 2025, attack. One boy, who sustained injuries, was released on July 18, leaving the remaining two still in captivity.
Bishop Dunia urged immediate action from the president, governor, and security agencies, stressing the urgent need to protect citizens in Edo North and across the state.
“It appears kidnappers have found Edo North and Edo State a convenient place to operate. Our people feel frustrated and helpless.
This abnormal situation has become all too common, and it is unacceptable. We beg that Edo North be secured so that our communities can once again live in peace and safety,” he said.
