The Catholic Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako east LGA of Edo state was attacked by gunmen on Wednesday, July 9.
According to reports from the incident, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was killed while three students of the seminary were kidnapped in the attack which occurred at about 9:00 pm that day.
Confirming the incident, Peter Egielewa, director of social communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi, said this was the second time in 10 months that the school had come under attack.
He said the diocese strongly condemned the incident and expressed deep concern over the repeated targeting of the catholic institution, its personnel, and facilities.
“We are deeply saddened and condemn in the strongest terms this act of violence,” Egielewa said, describing the persistent attacks as troubling and unacceptable.
“This is the second time in 10 months that the school has been attacked. Ten months ago, a priest was kidnapped.
“And now three seminarians were abducted and a civil defence corps member was killed, while a local vigilante sustained gun injuries.
“We call on the government to protect the lives of all those who work in catholic institutions and our diocese.
“We hope the security agencies at the local, state and federal levels will take up the responsibility for that so our people can be in peace and safety.”
On October 27, 2024, Thomas Oyode, the seminary’s rector, was kidnapped when gunmen attacked the institution while the priests and seminarians were observing evening prayers and benediction. He was released 10 days later.
