BENIN CITY – The Catholic Diocese of Auchi has announced the death of seminarian Emmanuel Alabi, who was abducted by gunmen in July. The news comes as his fellow captive, Joshua Aleobua, was safely released on November 4, 2025.
The three seminarians were kidnapped during an attack on the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi on July 10th. One victim, Japhet Jesse, was freed earlier.
In an official statement, the Bishop of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia, expressed “deep pain and sorrow” over Alabi’s death. He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect citizens and urged political leaders to prioritize national security over 2027 political ambitions.
In a devastating blow to the same community, five local farmers were kidnapped last Saturday, with abductors demanding a N50 million ransom.
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Disclaimer: This report is based on an official statement from the Catholic Diocese of Auchi. The details of the kidnapping and the subsequent ransom demand for the farmers are based on local accounts. The situation remains fluid and ongoing.
