The tragic news of the death of a seminarian, who was abducted since July has sent shockwave across Ivianokpodi community in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State following the announcement on Wednesday.
Daily Intel recalls that the seminarians were abducted after armed men attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi.
However, in a statement by the Assistant Director of Communications, Directorate of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, the church which expressed gratitude to God that one of the victims, Joshua Aleobua, regained his freedom, sadly announced that the other victim Emmanuel Alabi has died.
“During that incident, three 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 November 4, 2025. However, with deep sorrow, we announce the passing of seminarian Emmanuel Alabi, who lost his life in the course of the ordeal.
“The Bishop of the Diocese of Auchi, 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. He also cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation, urging them instead to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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.”
