One of the 14 seminarians withdrawn from formation in the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Faga Terkimbi Ed Mund, has publicly clarified his personal position on the matter. In a detailed Facebook post, he emphasised gratitude, respect for Bishop Most Reverend Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe CMF, and trust in God, while distancing himself from any attacks or criticisms directed at the Bishop and the Diocese.
Ed Mund stated clearly that he is not against his Bishop, the Vocations Director or Committee, the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi or the Catholic Church. He stressed that he has no interest in using the media to fight the Bishop or challenge his authority, and does not want his name, family or story used as a reason for anyone to insult, attack or ridicule the Bishop, whom he described as the voice of the voiceless in Nigeria. He also made it known that he did not ask, commission or support anyone to speak or write against the Bishop or the Diocese on his behalf.
Reflecting on his journey, Ed Mund expressed profound appreciation for the opportunities the Diocese gave him. Coming from a humble background, he received education, formation, exposure and two degrees through its support. He recalled that during some of the most difficult moments of his life, including three surgeries whose medical expenses exceeded ₦2 million, the Bishop cleared the bills and ensured he received treatment so he could return to formation. Even while busy on an advocacy journey in Europe, the Bishop continually reached out to him through the Vocations Director.
While acknowledging that the present situation is painful and that he may have questions he does not fully understand, Ed Mund insisted he would not turn disappointment into bitterness, hatred or disrespect. He said he can be hurt without becoming bitter, disappointed without becoming disrespectful, and can have questions without turning them into accusations. He asked those who wish to stand with him to pray for him rather than fight for him, noting that there is no need to bring a letter of withdrawal to social media. He concluded by blessing the Bishop, the Diocese, the priests, religious, seminarians and lay faithful who contributed to his journey, affirming that he remains sincerely grateful for all he received.
