An assistant parish priest of Saint Kelvin Catholic Church, Ogbaku, in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, was shot on Christmas morning, sparking renewed concerns over the safety of clergy during religious worship.
Gatekeepers News reports that the priest, whose identity has not been officially disclosed, was reportedly shot in the right hand at about 8 a.m. while approaching the church gate for the Christmas Day Mass.
A source, who requested anonymity, said the assailants appeared to have fired from a concealed position, making it difficult for anyone present to identify them.
“The shooting happened on Christmas Day when everyone was in a joyous mood,” the source said. “The priest was trying to enter the gate for the morning Mass but we just heard a sound and the next thing, he was in pain from being shot. Probably it was a stray bullet from somewhere close by but nobody saw who fired the shot.”
The injured priest was immediately rushed to an undisclosed hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment, as prayers continue for his recovery.
Confirming the incident, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said the shooting had not yet been formally reported to the police.
“Yes, I’m aware of the incident, though the church is yet to officially report the shooting. The Divisional Police Officer for Owerri West has visited the church to verify the claims and has requested to see the priest to aid the investigation,” Okoye said.
The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, also confirmed the shooting, noting that the perpetrators remain unknown, while investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The incident adds to growing security concerns in Imo State and underscores the vulnerability of religious leaders and worshippers, particularly during major Christian observances such as Christmas.
