By Jethro Ibileke
The Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Edo State, has announced the funeral Mass for Seminarian Andrew Peter, who was brutally murdered after being kidnapped by gunmen on March 3, 2025.
The young seminarian was abducted alongside Rev. Fr. Philip Ekweli, when heavily armed attackers stormed St. Peter Catholic Church, Iviukhua-Agenebode, Etsako East LGA, unleashing terror in the sacred rectory.
Though Fr. Ekweli was later rescued on March 13, 2025, after enduring severe torture, Peter was not as fortunate—his life was tragically cut short at the hands of his abductors.
A statement by the Director of Communications for the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, confirmed that the final farewell for the slain seminarian would be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the Priests’ Cemetery, Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivhianokpodi-Agenebode.
The Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss but extended heartfelt gratitude to those who have offered moral, spiritual, and psychological support during this painful period.
He urged the faithful to pray for the repose of Peter’s soul and for healing and recovery for Rev. Fr. Ekweli.
Dunia did not hold back in calling on the government at all levels to urgently tackle the escalating insecurity in Edo North and beyond.
“This evil must end! We call on all people of goodwill to join us in praying for peace and security in Edo State,” he declared.
