•Gunmen
One of the students of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivianokpodi, Estako East Local Government Area, Emmanuel Alabi, who was abducted on July 10, 2025, has been killed.
Gunmen struck at the minor seminary and abducted three students, Japhet Jesse, Joshua Aleobua, and late Alabi, reports The Nation.
Jesse managed to escape while Aleobua regained freedom on November 4 while Alabi was shot dead.
It was gathered that Alabi was shot dead in an attempt to escape after spending over 90 days in the kidnappers’ den.
A statement by Catholic Diocese of Auchi and signed by Assistant Director of Communications, Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, was silent on how Alabi died.
The statement by Bishop of the Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, expressed deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian.
It said Bishop Dunia called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting the lives and property of all citizens and cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation.
Bishop Dunia urged them to prioritise the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to the statement: “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.
“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.
“May the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
