Kidnapped Catholic Seminarian Dies in Captivity as Abducted Rev. Father Regains Freedom in Edo

A seminarian, Peter Andrew, who was kidnapped alongside a Catholic priest on March 3 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Iviukha, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, has died in the kidnappers’ den.

His body has yet to be recovered.

While the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Philip Ekeli, regained freedom, Andrew tragically died in captivity.

Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident on Friday morning, March 14.

Yamu said: “Intensive search and rescue operations by police operatives and vigilance members led to the release of the Rev. Father (Philip Ekeli) on 13/03/2025 at about 1652hrs in Amughe community.

“Bush combing continues, with a view to recover the remains of the Seminarian, who regrettably lost his life in the process, as well as to arrest the remaining gang of the kidnappers.”

One of the suspected kidnappers was killed, and four other suspects were arrested on the day of the abduction.