A Catholic priest identified as Charles Igechi, has been shot dead in Edo State, located in the south-south region of Nigeria.
Archbishop Augustine Akubeze of Benin City confirmed the incident through a notice addressed to the priests and members of the archdiocese on Thursday. The victim, identified as Charles Igechi, was attacked on Wednesday while returning to his place of assignment at St. Michael College in Ikhueniro, Edo. At the time, he held the position of vice principal at the college.
Archbishop Akubeze disclosed that the lifeless body of the priest was discovered along Boundary Street in Ikpoba Hill, within the Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State. The incident has been promptly reported to the “appropriate security agency” for investigation and action.
See also: Court Sentences Three Women To Death For Kidnapping
“They (security agency) are working on the case. We pray that the perpetrators of this evil act will be brought to the face of justice,” the archbishop said in the notice which also called for prayers for the repose of the soul of the slain priest.
“I entrust you all to the maternal intercession of our Lady of Sorrow. May God continue to guide all the faithful in the archdiocese of Benin City and may the soul of Rev Fr Charles Igechi find peace and tranquility in the loving embrace of our risen saviour,” the archbishop added.
According to a report, Nigeria witnessed the tragic loss of thirty-nine Catholic priests in 2022, with an additional thirty priests being abducted. These distressing incidents of violence against Catholic clergy reflect the insecurity plaguing the entire country, resulting in numerous killings and kidnappings of innocent individuals throughout the past year.
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