Thirty-six days after gunmen abducted two seminarians from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, the victims are yet to regain freedom.
The incident, which occurred on July 10, left one civil defence officer dead and three seminarians abducted. One of the students was later released, while the other two remain in captivity.
In a recent video reportedly released by the kidnappers, the teenagers were seen surrounded by masked, armed men, pleading with their parents and the public to help secure their release.
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi has now renewed calls for government intervention. In a statement on Friday, the Director of Communication, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, said the situation had left the diocese traumatised.
“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,” Bishop Gabriel Dunia was quoted as saying.
“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 had been in contact with the abductors and urged them to release the seminarians without further delay.
He also raised alarm over rising insecurity in Edo North, describing the region as a convenient operational ground for kidnappers.
“Our people feel frustrated and helpless. We are deeply worried about how this abnormality has become normal,” he said.
“It appears our people are left on their own to live in an environment of perpetual fear and terror. It shouldn’t be.
“We beg that Edo North be secured so our people can once again live in peace and safety.”
The diocese has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to intervene and ensure the safe release of the children.