The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka in Enugu State has confirmed the tragic killing of one of its priests, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya.
The cleric was reportedly shot dead on Friday along the Eha-Alumonah–Eha-Ndiagu road in Nsukka Local Government Area, an incident that has plunged the community into deep mourning.
Eyewitnesses recounted that Fr. Eya was attacked while driving his cream-coloured Toyota Corolla, which was later discovered riddled with bullets and stained with blood.
A video circulating online captured parishioners gathered around the vehicle, weeping and expressing their grief.
In an official statement, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi, described the incident as devastating and heartbreaking.
“Shocked to the marrow, it is with crushing pain and sorrow, yet with total submission to the will of the Almighty God and firm hope in the resurrection of the dead, that I inform you of the tragic death of our brother, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya,” the statement read.
Fr. Iyidobi called on the faithful to remain prayerful and to seek comfort in God during this difficult time.
As of the time of reporting, the police had not released an official statement regarding the killing.
