This is not the first time that this seminary has been invaded by a group of armed terrorists.
Newsroom(17/07/2025 20:08, Gaudium Press) Three young seminarians were kidnapped by a group of armed terrorists in Nigeria. The action took place last Thursday night, the 10th, when the bandits invaded the Diocesan Minor Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Ivhianokpodi, Edo State.
According to a statement released by the Diocese of Auchi, in addition to kidnapping the seminarians, the terrorists killed the Nigerian Civil Defense Corps officer Christopher Aweneghieme, who was providing security at the site. So far the kidnappers have not established any contact.
Senseless act of violence against religious institution
Expressing his sorrow and that of the whole Church for the death of the officer and the abducted youth, Bishop Gabriel Dunia of Auchi urged that in the coming days the votive Mass of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus be celebrated in all parishes, asking God to enlighten the hearts and minds of the kidnappers.
This incident is being investigated by law enforcement and is described as a “senseless act of violence against a religious institution and innocent young students.” Local police are calling this attack “barbaric” and “a direct attack on public peace and security.”
Seminary already targeted by kidnappers in 2024
With the safety of the other seminarians residing at this location in mind, all have been temporarily relocated to a secure area until security measures around the Seminary are tightened.
On October 27, 2024, this same Seminary had already been attacked by a group of armed men. On that occasion, Father Thomas Oyode, rector of the Seminary, offered himself as a hostage in place of the two young seminarians who were being kidnapped by the bandits. Eleven days later, the priest was released. (EPC)
Compiled by Teresa Joseph
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