Kidnapped Edo Seminarian Found Dead After Four Months in Captivity

The Catholic Diocese of Auchi has confirmed the death of a minor seminarian, Emmanuel Alabi, who was abducted in July from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. The tragic confirmation came after the young seminarian spent four months in the custody of his abductors.

Alabi was one of three seminarians kidnapped when armed men invaded the seminary on July 10, 2025. The other two, Japhet Jesse and Joshua Aleobua, were eventually released, though under distressing circumstances. Jesse regained his freedom earlier, while Aleobua was released on November 4, 2025. Unfortunately, Alabi did not survive the ordeal.

In a statement issued by the Assistant Director of Communications, Rev. Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, the Diocese expressed sorrow over the loss of Alabi and gratitude to God for the safe return of the other two seminarians. The statement described Alabi as a devoted young man who had dedicated his life to the service of God and the Church before his untimely death.

Reacting to the development, the Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, condemned the growing insecurity across Nigeria and called on the authorities to do more to protect citizens. He described Alabi’s death as a painful reminder of the government’s failure to address the escalating cases of abduction and violence that have continued to claim innocent lives.

“We are deeply saddened by this loss,” Bishop Dunia said. “Emmanuel was a young man preparing for a life of service to God and humanity. We call on security agencies to strengthen their efforts and ensure that Nigerians are safe in their homes, schools, and places of worship.” The Bishop also urged political leaders to focus on protecting lives rather than pursuing political ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Diocese appealed to parishioners and all Nigerians to pray for the repose of Alabi’s soul and for peace to return to the community. It also called for justice, insisting that those behind the abduction must be arrested and prosecuted. “The blood of the innocent cries out for justice,” the Church said, adding that the incident should serve as a wake-up call to leaders to prioritise the safety of citizens.

The kidnapping and killing of seminarians and priests have become increasingly common in Nigeria in recent years. Religious institutions have continued to come under attack despite repeated government assurances of improved security. The Church urged authorities to intensify intelligence gathering and security operations to prevent further tragedies, warning that continued inaction could deepen the country’s insecurity crisis.