A deadly attack on Wednesday night shattered the peace at the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. Armed assailants stormed the Catholic institution around 9 p.m., killing an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and kidnapping three seminarians.

The tragic incident marks yet another blow to the seminary, which has now suffered two violent invasions in less than a year.

The Catholic Diocese of Auchi reacted swiftly, condemning the attack in strong terms and calling for immediate government intervention to secure the release of the abducted students.

Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Social Communications for the Diocese, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “It is heartbreaking,” he stated. “This is the second time in ten months that this seminary has been targeted. We demand decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of our young seminarians.”

The incident underscores the growing insecurity in parts of Edo State and the increasing risks faced by religious institutions in remote communities.