Gunmen have reportedly killed a Roman Catholic priest of Nnewi Diocese, Anambra State, Rev. Fr. Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo.
Okonkwo, a native of Ekwulumili in Nnewi South Local Government Area (LGA) and pharmacist by profession, was killed on December 26 at Ihiala, along Onitsha-Owerri expressway.
According to a statement from the Chancellor, Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, Rev. Fr. Raphael Ezeogu, the death which occurred around 7pm and 8pm, increased sorrow in their hearts.
He said “Till yesterday, Fr Tobias, a pharmacist and native of Ekwulumili in Nnewi South Local Government Area, was manager of the respective schools Nursing, Midwifery and Medical Laboratory at our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Ihiala.
“We solicit your prayers and Holy Masses for his eternal joy. May Fr. Tobias rejoice in paradise for ever amen, amen. May God console the bereaved. Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.”
Meanwhile, the retired Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Professor Godwin Okpala, who was kidnapped along with his driver since December 6, 2024 has not been found even as no formal reports of his whereabouts had been made till date.
In the past months, unidentified persons have kidnapping and killing in parts of the state with residents now living in intense fear amidst uncertainty.