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.