Gunmen have attacked a Catholic church in Enugu State, abducting a seminarian and two other people in the latest assault targeting religious institutions in southeastern Nigeria.
The attack occurred at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Iwollo, Ezeagu Local Government Area, where the assailants reportedly stormed the church premises and whisked away the victims before fleeing to an unknown destination.
Security agencies have launched a search-and-rescue operation, while church authorities appealed for prayers and swift action to secure the victims' release.
Confirming the incident, the Catholic Diocese of Enugu described the attack as deeply disturbing.
"The unfortunate incident occurred when armed men invaded the church premises and abducted one of our seminarians alongside two other persons," the diocese said in a statement.
"We ask all the faithful and people of goodwill to pray for their safe and unconditional release."
The diocese said the abducted seminarian was undergoing pastoral formation at the parish when the attack happened.
It urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims unharmed and bring those responsible to justice.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over attacks on clergy, seminarians and places of worship across Nigeria.
Catholic leaders have repeatedly called on governments at all levels to strengthen security and protect religious communities from kidnappers and other criminal groups.
Residents of the area were said to have fled in panic as gunshots rang out during the invasion.
Local security operatives and community vigilantes later combed nearby forests in search of the abductors, but no arrests had been announced as of Sunday.
The Diocese of Enugu urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite the recurring attacks.
"We entrust our brothers to the loving protection of God and remain hopeful that they will return safely," the statement said.
"We also appeal to everyone to remain calm and avoid actions that could jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts."
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