A tragic incident unfolded in Iviukwa Community, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, as a Catholic priest, Rev. Father Philip Ekeli, and a seminarian, Peter Andrew, were abducted by unknown gunmen. The attack, which occurred at St. Peter Catholic Church, has raised serious concerns about security in the area.
Authorities have since launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation involving security forces and local vigilantes to ensure the safe return of the victims.
Details of the Abduction
According to police reports, the incident happened on Sunday night at approximately 11:30 pm. The Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Mr. Inaede Gabriel, made a distress call to law enforcement, alerting them to the attack on the church premises.
Upon receiving the alert, security operatives, including members of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), were immediately deployed to the scene. However, by the time officers arrived, the priest and the seminarian had been taken away by the assailants into a nearby forest.
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Vigilantes Engage the Gunmen
During the attack, local vigilante groups confronted the gunmen, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the death of one of the attackers. The deceased suspect’s body was later deposited at the General Hospital Mortuary in Agenebode for further investigation.
Authorities recovered several items left behind by the attackers, including:
✔ A button phone with two Airtel SIM cards
✔ A power bank
✔ A dagger jacket
✔ A bag containing biscuits and sachets of Nescafé tea
✔ Two pairs of rubber shoes
✔ A small bag containing ₦168,850 in cash
Security Forces Intensify Search Efforts
In response to the abduction, a joint rescue operation involving:
✅ Nigerian Army’s 195 Battalion
✅ Police operatives
✅ Local vigilantes
✅ Hunters and community security groups
has been launched to locate and rescue the victims.
The security agencies have reassured the public that every effort is being made to apprehend the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of the abducted priest and seminarian.
Community Reactions and Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents and religious groups in Edo State. Many community leaders have called on the government to enhance security measures, especially in areas prone to criminal activities.
Church leaders and community members have urged the authorities to intensify security patrols and take decisive action against criminal elements operating in the region.
Editor’s Note
The abduction of Rev. Father Philip Ekeli and Peter Andrew is a tragic reminder of the security challenges in some parts of Nigeria. However, with the swift response from security forces, there is hope that the victims will be safely rescued.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with useful information regarding the whereabouts of the abducted individuals to report to the nearest security agency to aid in the ongoing operation.
