A joint team of security operatives in Edo State has successfully rescued Reverend Father Philip Ekeli, who was kidnapped alongside a seminarian, Peter Andrew, on March 3, 2025, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Iviukha, Etsako East Local Government Area.
The Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, a retired Commissioner of Police, commended the combined efforts of security agencies, stating that the operatives engaged in extensive bush combing, which led to the victim’s rescue on March 13, 2025, in Amughe Community after 10 days in captivity.
Ibadin disclosed that the kidnappers were forced to surrender due to the superior firepower of security forces. He assured that Rev. Fr. Ekeli was not harmed during the rescue but later succumbed to the inhumane treatment inflicted on him by his captors.
Confirming the development, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moses Joel Yamu, said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining fleeing suspects.
He further revealed that security forces are intensifying their search to recover the remains of Seminarian Peter Andrew, who tragically lost his life in the course of the rescue mission.
It will be recalled that one of the kidnappers was neutralized, while four others were arrested on the day of the abduction.
