2 Nigerian minor seminarians released months after kidnapping, 1 killed in captivity

ACI Africa, Nov 5, 2025 / 14:04 pm (CNA).

The Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Nigeria has announced the release of two seminarians who were abducted in July during an armed attack on Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi while confirming the death of a third victim.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the assistant director of communications of the diocese, Father Linus Imoedemhe, recalled that during the July 10 incident, 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 Nov. 4,” Imoedemhe said in the statement shared with ACI Africa, CNA’s news partner in Africa. “However, with deep sorrow, we announce the passing of seminarian Emmanuel Alabi, who lost his life in the course of the ordeal.”

Imoedemhe went on to extend the condolences of the bishop of Auchi to the families of the victims.

“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,” Imoedemhe said.

The bishop has cautioned political leaders against “turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation,” urging them to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.

In his statement, Imoedemhe invited the people of God 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.”

“The Diocese of Auchi remains committed to the values of faith, peace, and justice, trusting in God’s infinite mercy to bring comfort to the bereaved family, the seminary community, and all those affected by this tragedy,” he said. 

“May the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen,” Imoedemhei added.

The July 10 attack also claimed the life of Christopher Aweneghieme, a security guard at the seminary.

On Aug. 14, the Diocese of Auchi confirmed the authenticity of a viral video showing two of the three abducted seminarians.

The footage shows the two young seminarians with what appears to be a human skull, crying and pleading for their release while surrounded by gun-wielding individuals believed to be their captors.

Following the abduction, Dunia urged the families of the three seminarians to remain steadfast in prayer.

In a July 13 interview with ACI Africa, Dunia addressed the seminarians’ parents, saying: “Do not be crushed by fear, threats, or intimidation.”

“These things are not happening only at the seminary,” he said. “Some seminarians have even been kidnapped from their homes while on holiday. We must remain vigilant and do all we can to protect them,” the bishop said.

Dunia appealed to all levels of government — local, state, and federal — to take decisive action to address the challenge of insecurity. 

“There is a vast forest stretching between Edo and Kogi states, and that forest is where these criminals hide and launch their attacks. The government knows how to deal with this — they have the intelligence and the resources — but they must act.”

He warned: “If nothing is done, communities will be abandoned, and these criminals will take over our land. We must not allow this to happen.”

This story was first published by ACI Africa, CNA’s news partner in Africa, and has been adapted by CNA.

Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/267611/two-nigerian-minor-seminarians-released-months-after-kidnapping-one-killed-in-captivity