A disturbing incident has unfolded in Edo State, Nigeria, where gunmen suspected to be kidnappers stormed the Catholic Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary School in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area. The attack, which occurred on July 10, 2025, around 9 pm, has left one NSCDC officer dead and three students abducted.
The Attack
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen arrived at the school in large numbers, overpowering the security personnel on duty. They killed one NSCDC officer and injured a vigilante, before abducting three students. The motive behind the attack is yet to be ascertained, but it is suspected to be a kidnapping operation.
Security Response
The Edo State Police Command has sprung into action, with the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, ordering the immediate deployment of tactical teams to rescue the hostages and hunt down the assailants. The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, vigilantes, and hunters, are working tirelessly to track down the kidnappers and bring them to justice.
Previous Incident
This is the second time in 10 months that the school has been attacked. A priest was kidnapped 10 months ago, and the recent attack has raised concerns about the safety and security of the school and its students.
Government Reaction
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi has condemned the attack and called on the government to protect the lives of all those who work in Catholic institutions and across the diocese. Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Social Communications for the diocese, expressed deep concern over the repeated targeting of Catholic institutions and personnel in the area.
Efforts to Rescue the Abducted Students
The police are working around the clock to rescue the abducted students and bring the perpetrators to justice. The Commissioner of Police has assured the public that the command is fully committed to the protection of lives and property and will not relent until those behind this reprehensible act are tracked down and made to face the full wrath of the law.
Conclusion
The kidnapping incident at the Catholic Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary School is a wake-up call for the authorities to review the security measures in place in schools and other institutions. The government and security agencies must work together to ensure that such incidents do not recur and that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
