The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Reverend Gabriel Dunia, has made an urgent appeal to President Bola Tinubu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and security agencies to intensify efforts toward rescuing two seminarians abducted 35 days ago.
The plea follows the circulation of a distressing video showing the kidnapped children in captivity, clutching what appears to be a human skull while pleading for freedom amid armed captors.
In a statement released by the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Reverend Peter Egielewa, Bishop Dunia expressed deep anguish over the prolonged captivity of the seminarians, who were among three students kidnapped on July 10, 2025, when gunmen attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
“As the chief shepherd of the Diocese, I feel personally hurt and disturbed that my seminarians, our children, have been living with armed strangers for 35 days now. I find it difficult to sleep these days because of this,” the Bishop said. He called for sustained prayers and swift intervention from authorities to secure their safe release.
The viral video has heightened concerns over the safety of the abducted boys, with the church confirming their identities and appealing for public support. The Bishop urged security agencies to act decisively, emphasising the need to protect vulnerable communities from such attacks.
The incident underscores the growing insecurity in parts of Edo State, with religious and community leaders calling for stronger measures to combat kidnapping and violence. The Diocese continues to mobilise prayers while awaiting decisive action from the government and security forces.
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