Tragedy struck again in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, as gunmen suspected to be kidnappers killed a Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officer and abducted three seminarians from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode.

The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on Thursday, and a local vigilante was reportedly injured during the attack. The slain NSCDC officer was said to be attached to the Catholic seminary as a security personnel.

Reverend Father Peter Egielewa, Director of Social Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, confirmed the attack, expressing deep concern over the increasing threat to Catholic institutions in the region. He noted that this is the second attack in 10 months on the same seminary, following the kidnapping of a priest in 2024.

Egielewa condemned the persistent attacks and called on the government and security agencies at all levels to urgently step up protection for religious institutions and personnel across the state.

Further reports reveal a troubling pattern of kidnappings in the area. In March 2025, Seminarian Peter Andrew was killed while Reverend Father Philip Ekeli was released after a ransom was paid. Additionally, two brothers were abducted last month and reportedly released only after a ransom of ₦35 million was paid, plus an additional ₦6 million demanded by the abductors.

The Catholic Diocese is now urging immediate intervention by security forces to end the wave of violence and restore peace in the region.