Bandits Kill Civil Defense Officer, Abduct 3 Seminarians in Edo Attack
Gunmen Storm Catholic Seminary in Late-Night Raid
Armed bandits launched a brazen attack on Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary School in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, leaving a trail of violence and abduction in Edo State. The Wednesday night assault resulted in the tragic death of a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officer and the kidnapping of three seminarians.
Eyewitness accounts indicate the gunmen infiltrated the Catholic institution around 9 pm, catching students and staff off guard. During the violent incursion, a local vigilante member sustained serious injuries while attempting to protect the school community.
Pattern of Violence Against Religious Institutions
This marks the second security breach at the seminary within ten months, following the earlier abduction of a priest from the same institution. Reverend Father Peter Egielewa, spokesperson for the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, expressed deep concern about the recurring attacks targeting their educational facilities.
“Ten months ago, a priest was kidnapped from this same location,” Egielewa stated. “Now we face the abduction of three young seminarians, the killing of a civil defense officer, and serious injuries to a vigilante member. This cannot continue.”
Community Living in Fear Amid Rising Kidnappings
Local sources reveal this incident follows another recent kidnapping case in the area where two brothers were abducted. Despite payment of a ₦36 million ransom, the victims reportedly remain in captivity with their captors demanding an additional ₦6 million.
The seminary attack has heightened fears among residents of Etsako East Local Government Area, with many questioning the effectiveness of security measures in the region. Community leaders are calling for immediate government intervention to protect educational institutions and vulnerable populations.
Church Demands Enhanced Security Measures
The Catholic Diocese has issued a strong appeal to security agencies at all levels to prioritize the protection of religious and educational facilities. “We implore local, state, and federal security agencies to fulfill their constitutional duty of safeguarding lives and property,” Father Egielewa emphasized.
Security analysts note this attack follows a disturbing trend of bandits targeting religious institutions in Nigeria’s northern and central regions. The seminarians’ abduction raises particular concerns about the safety of boarding schools in vulnerable areas.
Government Response and Security Concerns
As of press time, Edo State authorities have not released an official statement regarding the incident. However, security sources confirm operations are underway to locate the missing students and apprehend the perpetrators.
The NSCDC has pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding their officer’s death while reinforcing security around educational institutions in the state. Community vigilante groups have reportedly intensified night patrols in response to the attack.
This developing story comes amid growing national concern about school safety following multiple high-profile kidnapping cases across Nigeria in recent years. Education advocates are urging comprehensive security reforms to protect students and teachers nationwide.
For more updates on this developing story and other security-related news, follow Neptune Prime’s dedicated coverage.
Credit: This report was sourced from Neptune Prime. All rights belong to the original publisher.