Kidnapped Catholic Seminarian dies in kidnappers’ den while Rev. Father abducted with him regains freedom in Edo

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

His body is however yet to be located. 

The parish priest, Rev. Fr. Philip Ekeli regained freedom, sadly Andrew died in captivity.

Edo Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moses Yamu, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), made the disclosure 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 suspected criminals were arrested on the day of the kidnap.