By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

There’s fear in Iviukhua community, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State following the abduction of a Catholic priest and a seminarian by unidentified gunmen.

Rev. Fr. Philip-Mario Ekweli, the Parish Priest of St. Peter’s Apostle Catholic Church, and Bro. Peter Andrew, a seminarian, were reportedly kidnapped Monday night when assailants stormed the church premises.

The attack, which occurred around 10:30 pm, has left residents in a state of fear and anxiety.

As of Tuesday morning, no group has claimed responsibility of the incident, and there has been no word from the kidnappers regarding their demands.

Reports say local authorities and security forces have launched an investigation and are actively working to secure the release of the victims.

The abduction has ignited widespread concern among the Christian community and beyond, with many decrying the worsening security situation in the community.

According to a source, due to this negative incident, members of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, to which the parish belongs, have intensified prayers for the safe return of the clergymen, while community leaders have called for urgent intervention by security agencies.

Contacted, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), Moses Yamu said a press statement would be released soon regarding the incident.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

hotel after receiving a female.

The police further explained that he did not die in the hands of kidnappers as widely reported by the media.

This was contained in a statement signed by SP Josephine Adeh, spokesperson of the command stating that:

“In light of the recent reports alleging that retired Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, David Shikfu Parradang, was kidnapped and subsequently killed, we wish to clarify the facts surrounding this incident to ensure accurate information is disseminated to the public.

On March 3, 2025, at approximately 12:00 PM, Mr. Parradang arrived at Joy House Hotel, Area 3 Junction, driving a black Mercedes Benz. He checked into the hotel, paying a sum of Twenty two thousand naira (N22,000) for one night’s stay.

Shortly thereafter, he directed the hotel room attendant to escort a female guest who had come to visit to his room.

This lady left the hotel premises around 04:00PM of the same day.

Mr. Parradang did not exit his room after the lady left. Around 04:00 AM of 04 March 2025, a friend who is a military officer, concerned for his wellbeing, traced him to the hotel.

Upon arrival, the hotel receptionist and the officer proceeded to his room, where Mr. Parradang was found deceased, seated in a chair.

The Durumi Police Station was notified and officers promptly arrived at the scene, secured the area, took photographs, and collected all relevant evidence to preserve the integrity of the crime scene.

The body has been transferred to the National Hospital for necessary procedures, and hotel staff are currently cooperating with Police investigations.

Effort is in top gear to effect the arrest of the lady.

We urge the public and media outlets to refrain from spreading unverified information, including claims of kidnapping, that may incite fear or panic.

The FCT Police Command is committed to conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Mr. Parradang’s death. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure justice is served.