An assistant parish priest of Saint Kelvin Catholic Church, Ogbaku, in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, was shot on Christmas Day by gunmen suspected to be fleeing an unknown incident.
The priest, whose identity has not been officially confirmed, was reportedly shot around 8 am while approaching the church gate for morning Mass.
A source, who requested anonymity told DAILY GAZETTE that the priest was hit in the right hand and noted that the assailant was not seen.
The gunmen appeared to have fired from a concealed, distant location, making it difficult for witnesses to identify them.
The priest was immediately rushed to an undisclosed hospital and is receiving medical care, with prayers ongoing for his recovery.
“The shooting occurred on Christmas Day when everyone was in joyous celebration,” the source said.
“The priest was entering the church gate when suddenly he was struck. It may have been a stray bullet, but no one saw who fired it. He is now receiving treatment, and prayers are being said for his survival.”
Confirming the incident, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, stated that the matter had not been formally reported to the police.
“I am aware of the incident, although the church has not officially reported it. The Divisional Police Officer for Owerri West has visited the church to verify the claims and has requested to see the priest to assist with the investigation,” he said.
The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, also confirmed the shooting but noted that the identity of the perpetrators remains unknown.
Police investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
