An assistant Catholic priest was shot by unknown gunmen on Christmas Day, December 25, in Ogbaku community, Owerri West Local Government Area of , sparking renewed concern over insecurity and targeted attacks on religious figures in the South-East.
The priest, attached to St. Kelvin Catholic Church, Ogbaku, was reportedly approaching the church premises early in the morning to officiate Christmas Mass when he was shot. Witness accounts indicate that the assailants struck from an unknown location and fled immediately, leaving worshippers and residents in shock.
He sustained gunshot injuries to his right hand and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. Church sources say the priest is responding to medical care, while prayers continue for his full recovery.
The incident was confirmed by the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri, led by , who described the attack as disturbing, especially coming on a day meant to symbolise peace, hope, and goodwill. The Archdiocese noted that the identity and motive of the attackers remain unknown.
The , through the Imo State Police Command, acknowledged awareness of the shooting. Police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye said officers from the Owerri West Division visited the scene and commenced preliminary investigations, adding that efforts are ongoing to obtain more details from the victim to aid the probe.
Security analysts and community leaders say the attack reflects a worsening security climate in Imo and the wider South-East, where sporadic shootings, kidnappings, and attacks on civilians and clergy have persisted despite repeated assurances by authorities.
Residents of Ogbaku expressed fear and outrage, questioning how a priest could be attacked in broad daylight on Christmas morning without any immediate arrests. Many called on the federal and state governments to strengthen security around places of worship and ensure that perpetrators are identified and prosecuted.
As investigations continue, the shooting has reignited national debate about the safety of religious leaders and the broader implications of unchecked gun violence in Nigeria, particularly during sacred and symbolic occasions such as Christmas.