Nigerian diocese confirms release of second kidnapped seminarian; third dies in captivity after July raid on Edo State seminary. Bishop urges action on insecurity.
Newsroom (05/11/2025, Gaudium Press )The Catholic Diocese of Auchi on Tuesday confirmed the release of 15-year-old seminarian Joshua Aleobua, the second of three teenagers abducted during a July 10 armed raid on the Minor Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Ivianokpodi, Edo State. In the same statement, the diocese announced with “deep sorrow” the death of 16-year-old Emmanuel Alabi, the third abductee, who “lost his life in the course of the ordeal.”
Aleobua regained his freedom on November 4, nearly four months after the attack that also claimed the life of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps officer Christopher Aweneghieme. Japhet Jesse, the first of the three seminarians, had been freed on July 18.
“We are grateful to God for the safe release of Japhet Jesse much earlier and, most recently, Joshua Aleobua,” read the statement signed by Rev. Linus Imoedemhe, deputy director of social communications for the diocese. No details were provided on whether ransoms were paid.
Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia, bishop of Auchi, expressed “deep pain and sorrow” over Alabi’s death and urged security agencies to redouble efforts to protect citizens. He further cautioned political leaders against “turning a blind eye” to Nigeria’s escalating insecurity as the 2027 general elections approach, insisting that public safety must supersede partisan ambitions.
The assault, which unfolded shortly after 9 p.m. on July 10, marked the second attack on the seminary in less than a year. In October 2024, gunmen stormed the chapel and abducted rector Rev. Thomas Oyode, who was released after 11 days in captivity.
Police investigators described the July incident as “barbaric” and a “direct attack on public peace and security.” Remaining seminarians were immediately relocated to a secure site; the diocese said they will not return until reinforced security measures are implemented at the Ivianokpodi campus.
Bishop Dunia has directed all parishes to celebrate Masses of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus in the coming days, imploring divine intervention “to enlighten the hearts and minds of the kidnappers.”
The raid fits a decade-long pattern of abductions targeting Catholic clergy and seminarians across Nigeria. A March 2025 report by the Fides News Agency documented 145 priest kidnappings between 2015 and 2025, with 11 victims killed. Analysts attribute the surge to deteriorating economic conditions that have fueled a lucrative ransom industry.
- Raju Hasmukh with files form Fides
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