A student of Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Etsako East local government area, Emmanuel Alabi, has been killed following his abduction on July 10, 2025.
Gunmen attacked the seminary and abducted three students: Alabi, Japhet Jesse, and Joshua Aleobua.
Jesse managed to escape, while Aleobua was released on November 4.
Alabi, however, was shot dead, reportedly during an attempt to escape after spending more than 90 days in captivity, according to The Nation.
A statement from the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, signed by Assistant Director of Communications, Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, did not provide details on the circumstances of Alabi’s death.
The Bishop of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel Dunia, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian.
He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect citizens’ lives and property and warned political leaders not to ignore the escalating insecurity in the country.
Bishop Dunia also urged leaders to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions as the nation approaches the 2027 elections.
The statement read in part: “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.”
