Gunmen storm Edo church, overpower security, and kidnap Catholic priest and seminarian in a daring late-night attack.
Edo, Nigeria (EPICSTORIAN) — Armed men stormed St. Peter Catholic Church in Iviukhua-Agenebode, Edo State, late Monday night, seizing Rev. Fr. Philip Ekweli and a seminarian.
The attackers broke into the priest’s residence, forcing doors and windows open while gunfire rang out, a Nigerian local media reported.
Gunfire Exchange Ends in Abduction
Local vigilantes attempted to intervene, but the assailants overpowered them with heavier firepower. The gunmen fled into the surrounding forest, taking their captives with them.
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi confirmed the abduction in a statement on Tuesday. No contact had been made with the kidnappers, and their demands remained unknown.
Bishop Raises Alarm Over Clergy Attacks following Edo incident
Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, Bishop of the Diocese, condemned the rising frequency of priest kidnappings in Edo North.
“Once a peaceful region, Edo North has become a target for criminals who abduct people for ransom. This cannot continue unchecked,” he said, calling on the government to address worsening security challenges.
The Diocese of Auchi, established in 2003, has faced multiple attacks. Eight priests have been kidnapped in the past five years, one of whom was killed in 2022.
Kidnappings targeting clergy have escalated across Nigeria, adding pressure on security forces to curb the growing crisis. Calls for enhanced security in Edo North have intensified, with community leaders urging immediate action.
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As of Tuesday evening, law enforcement agencies had yet to release details on efforts to locate the missing priest and seminarian.
