- 14 July, 2025
Edo State, Nigeria, July 14, 2025 — In a chilling act of violence targeting a religious institution, armed assailants stormed the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi, Edo State, late Thursday night, killing a security officer and kidnapping three seminarians on July 10. The Diocese of Auchi confirmed the incident in a statement released on July 12, expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and appealing for prayers and peace.
The attack occurred shortly after 9:00 PM, according to a report by Fides news agency. Bishop Gabriel Dunia of Auchi Diocese mourned the loss of Civil Defense Corps officer Christopher Aweneghieme, who was killed while on duty at the seminary. At the time of the statement, the kidnappers had not made contact.
Authorities have since relocated the remaining seminarians to a safer location while investigations and security reinforcements are underway. Police officials described the assault as “not only barbaric, but also a direct attack on public peace and security,” condemning the violence against innocent students preparing for religious life.
Bishop Dunia called on all parishes to celebrate the Mass of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, urging the faithful to pray that God may enlighten the hearts of the kidnappers.
This is the second violent incident at the same seminary within a year. In October 2024, gunmen abducted the rector, Father Thomas Oyode, during an attack on the seminary’s chapel. He was released after 11 days in captivity.
The latest abduction highlights a growing crisis. A March 2025 report by Fides revealed that from 2015 to 2025, at least 145 Catholic priests were kidnapped in Nigeria, 11 of whom were killed. The surge in such incidents has been linked to worsening economic conditions and the rise of ransom-driven kidnappings across the country.
Courtesy: Vatican News
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