By Jude Atemanke
ACI Africa, Mar 18, 2025 / 06:00 am
A heartbreaking incident occurred in the Nigerian Diocese of Auchi, where a seminarian was tragically murdered by his abductors after being kidnapped from a parish rectory. This devastating news was confirmed by an official of the diocese, while the priest who was abducted alongside the seminarian has been safely released.
In a statement released on March 15, Father Peter Egielewa, the director of communication for the Auchi Diocese, announced the liberation of Father Philip Ekweli from captivity after 10 harrowing days. He is currently undergoing necessary medical treatment to recover from the ordeal.
However, the joy of Father Ekweli’s release was marred by the tragic loss of 21-year-old seminarian, Andrew Peter, who was mercilessly killed by the abductors. The Auchi Diocese extends its deepest sympathies to Andrew Peter’s family, offering prayers for their comfort and strength during this challenging time. May his soul rest in peace.
The abduction took place at the rectory of St.
Welcome to the blog of Peter Catholic Church in Iviukhua-Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo state. Our peaceful community recently experienced a tragic event when gunmen attacked both the rectory and church, causing destruction and leading our members into the surrounding forest.
In a statement released on March 14, Egielewa, a representative of the church, mentioned that Bishop Gabriel Ghiakhomo Dunia expressed gratitude for the prayers and support received while Father Ekweli and a seminarian were held captive.
Bishop Ghiakhomo called on the Nigerian government and security agencies to address the deteriorating security situation in Edo north and other parts of the state. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure the lives and property of the people, as the region has become a safe haven for kidnappers.
The bishop expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Edo state government in rescuing victims but raised concerns about the response of the police in rescue operations. He urged them to improve their measures for rescuing kidnapped victims.
Egielewa lamented the recent tragedies that have befallen the Auchi Diocese, with priests being kidnapped, tortured, and even murdered. He prayed for the souls of seminarian Andrew Peter, Father Christopher Odia, and all victims of kidnapping in Nigeria.
As a community, we stand together in prayer and solidarity, seeking peace and security for all our members. Let us continue to support one another and work towards a safer future for our region.
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