By Simeon OSAJIE
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi in Edo North Senatorial District of Edo State, has disclosed that one of the kidnapped Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Joshun Aleobu has retained his freedom on November 4, 2025 and regret to announce the passing of Seminarian Emmanuel Alabi, who lost his life in the course of the ordeal.
This was disclosed in a press statement by Rev. Fr. Linus Imoedemhe, Assistant Director of Communications of the Catholic Diocese and made available to The9JaTREND in Benin, Edo State capital.
Recall that the Catholic Diocese of Auchi experienced an unfortunate incident that occurred on the night of July 10, 2025, when the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivianokpodi, was attacked by armed kidnappers. During that incident, three seminarians Japhet Jesse, Joshua Aleobua, and Emmanuel Alabi were abducted.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia who has expressed his deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian and called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting the lives and property of all citizens.
He also cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation, urging them instead to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Diocese also invites all the faithful and people of goodwill to join us in praying for the repose of the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and for the peace, healing, and security of our people and land.
While praying for the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace, Fr. Imoedemhe stated that the Diocese of Auchi remains committed to the values of faith, peace, and justice, trusting in God’s infinite mercy to bring comfort to the bereaved family, the seminary community, and all those affected by this tragedy.
The state read in part:
“PRESS RELEASE Update on the Kidnap Incident at Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivianokpod)
“Recall that the Catholic Diocese of Auchi experienced an unfortunate incident that occurred on the night of July 10, 2025, when the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivianokpodi, was attacked by armed kidnappers. During that incident, three seminarians Japhet Jesse, Joshua Aleobua, and Emmanuel Alabi—were abducted.
“We are grateful to God for the safe release of Japhet Jesse much earlier and. most recently, Joshua Aleobua, who regained his freedom on November 4, 2025. However, with deep sorrow, we announce the passing of seminarian Emmanuel Alabi. who lost his life in the course of the ordeal.
“The Bishop of the Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia, has expressed his deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian and has called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting the lives and property of all citizens. He also cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation, urging them instead to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
“:The Catholic Diocese of Auchi invites all the faithful and people of goodwill to join us in praying for the repose of the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and for the peace, healing, and security of our people and land.
“The Diocese of Auchi remains committed to the values of faith, peace, and justice, trusting in God’s infinite mercy to bring comfort to the bereaved family, the seminary community, and all those affected by this tragedy.
“May the soul of Emmanuel Alabi, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
“Rev. Fr. Linus Imoedemhe Assistant Director of Communications