Tragic Shooting of Catholic Priest in Nigeria Raises Security Concerns
On December 26, Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo was shot dead in Ihiala, Nigeria, amid rising insecurity. The priest served at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and was known for his work in education. This incident is part of a broader trend of violence against Christians in the region, which has seen numerous kidnappings and murders, particularly around the Christmas season.
On Boxing Day, a Catholic priest was tragically shot dead on a highway in Ihiala, southeast Nigeria, amidst escalating security concerns in the nation. The Diocese of Nnewi reported that the incident occurred between 7 and 8 p.m. as Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo was traveling along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway. Details surrounding the event and further context remain unclear.
Father Raphael Ezeogu, the diocese’s chancellor, confirmed that the slain priest was not only a clergyman but also a pharmacist and manager of various educational institutions, including nursing and midwifery schools at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala. He urged for prayers and Holy Masses for Father Okonkwo’s eternal joy.
Despite multiple reports, local police in Anambra state have yet to officially confirm the priest’s murder. The area has recently witnessed a spike in crimes, including kidnappings perpetrated by criminal gangs attempting to extort families and organizations for ransom payments. This trend is evident from the rising statistics of violence, with 21 Catholic priests kidnapped between September 2022 and August 2023, according to the bishops’ conference.
Additionally, the Fulani herders, labeled the fourth deadliest terrorist group worldwide, have been noted for kidnapping civilians, abducting schoolchildren for ransom, and displacing numerous Christian farmers by seizing their lands. Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme commented on the severe hardships faced by Christians in northeast Nigeria due to both extremist actions and the government’s inaction.
The murder of Father Okonkwo compounds the distressing events surrounding Christmas in Nigeria. Earlier tragedies included a deadly stampede during a charity event organized by the Catholic Church that claimed the lives of 67 individuals. On December 21, a separate incident resulted in 10 fatalities during a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Abuja, with over 1,000 individuals evacuated from the premises. These incidents reveal the harsh economic conditions that have exacerbated the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The assassination of Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo highlights the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, particularly for the Christian community. Recent tragedies during the holiday season further reflect the severe socio-economic challenges faced by the populace, underscoring the urgent need for improved security and support for those affected by violence. As the nation grapples with these crises, the sentiments of despair among citizens continue to rise, calling for collective prayers and international attention to the ongoing plight.
Original Source: www.osvnews.com
