Kidnapped Edo minor seminarian confirmed dead

BENIN CITY – IVIANOKPODI community in Etsako East Local Government Area has been thrown into mourning as one of the minor seminarians kidnapped since July has been reported dead in the hands of the kidnappers.

A press release by the Assistant Director of Communications, Directorate of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, which was made available to journalists on Wednesday, said that though the church was grateful to God that one of the victims, Joshua Aleobua, regained his freedom, the other victim Emmanuel Alabi died.

The seminarians were abducted on July 10, 2025, when armed men attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi.

He said, “During that incident, three seminarians-Japhet Jesse, Joshua Aleobua, and Emmanuel Alabi were abducted.

“We are grateful to God for the safe release of Japhet Jesse much earlier and, most recently Joshua Aleobua, who regained his freedom on November 4, 2025. However, with deep sorrow, we announce the passing of seminarian Emmanuel Alabi, who lost his life in the course of the ordeal.

“The Bishop of the Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia, has expressed his deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian and has called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting the lives and property of all citizens. He also cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation, urging them instead to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.

“The Catholic Diocese of Auchi invites all the faithful and people of goodwill to join us in praying for the repose of the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and for the peace, healing, and security of our people and land.”

Meanwhile, five people from the same community were reported kidnapped on their way to their farm last Saturday and the abductors are demanding N50 million ransom.

A resident of the community said the farmers kidnapped were made up of three males and two females.

According to him. “One of them is my neighbour. They were kidnapped last Saturday and as of today, the abductors are asking for N50 million.”