By Jide Francis
Society Page Editor
Two minor seminarians kidnapped from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, Edo State, have now spent 35 days in captivity, deepening fears over the worsening state of insecurity in Edo North.
The shocking revelation follows the emergence of a disturbing viral video showing the boys in distress, clutching what appeared to be a human skull, while surrounded by heavily armed men believed to be their captors. In the heartbreaking footage, the children were seen tearfully pleading for their release — a scene that has stirred national outrage and intensified calls for government action.
The Night of the Attack
The seminarians were among three boys seized on July 10, 2025, when gunmen invaded the seminary. During the raid, the attackers shot indiscriminately and killed a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officer, Mr. Christopher Aweneghieme, who was on guard duty. The minors were whisked away into the bush in the chaos.
One of the abducted boys, who sustained injuries during the attack, was released on July 18, 2025. However, the other two have remained in captivity for more than a month despite continuous prayers, appeals, and negotiations.
Bishop’s Anguish and Call for Action
Speaking on the painful ordeal, the Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, described the prolonged detention of the children as “a personal torment.”
“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. I find it difficult to sleep these days because of this. We have been praying since their kidnap and again I call on people everywhere to please pray with us,” he lamented.
The Bishop further explained that the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, founded in 2006 under his leadership, has trained and graduated over 500 students who have gone on to serve the church. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to “do the needful” to secure the boys’ release and restore safety in Edo North.
Rising Insecurity in Edo North
The abduction has reignited debates about the rising wave of kidnappings in Edo State, particularly in the North. Bishop Dunia expressed fears that criminal gangs may have turned the region into a convenient base of operations.
“It appears kidnappers in Nigeria have suddenly found a convenient place of operation in Edo North and Edo State. Our people feel frustrated and helpless. We beg that Edo North be secured so that our people can once again live in peace and safety,” he said.
Tribute to Fallen Officer
The Diocese also paid glowing tribute to the late Christopher Aweneghieme, the NSCDC officer killed during the seminary attack, describing him as a “dedicated officer who died in the line of duty.” His sacrifice, the Church said, would not be forgotten.
Mounting Pressure on Authorities
The disturbing viral video has heightened pressure on the government to act swiftly. Civil rights groups, including the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), have already criticized what they describe as “police incompetence” in preventing recurring attacks on Catholic seminaries in Edo State.
For now, the two young seminarians remain in the custody of their abductors, and their families, colleagues, and the wider Catholic community continue to pray and hope for their safe return.
