Gunmen launched a deadly attack on the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, killing an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and abducting three students.
The incident occurred around 9 pm on Wednesday, sparking fear and renewed concerns over the safety of religious institutions in the state.
This was the second attack on the seminary in ten months, with a priest being kidnapped during the previous incident.
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi strongly condemned the attack and urged swift action to secure the release of the abducted seminarians.
Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Social Communications for the diocese, described the incident as “deeply saddening” and called on authorities to protect Catholic institutions and ensure the safety of staff, students, and clergy.
The identities of the kidnapped students have not been disclosed, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The incident highlights the growing insecurity in different states across Nigeria, with calls for urgent intervention to address the activities of kidnappers and bandits.
Despite promises from the Nigerian government to put an end to the killings and abductions, the attacks continue, leaving many citizens in fear for their safety.
