Enugu Diocese Mourns Priest Killed by Gunmen

The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, Enugu State, has confirmed the killing of Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya.

The priest was reportedly shot dead on Thursday night, September 19, 2025, along the Eha-Alumona–Eha-Ndiagu road in Ishiogwu, Nsukka Local Government Area.

In a statement, Rev. Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi, Chancellor of the Diocese, described the incident as “a devastating loss” and urged the faithful to remain steadfast in prayer.

“It is with crushing pain that I inform the faithful of the tragic death of our brother, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya. Let us remain ardent in prayer that God sees us through this period of profound anguish,” Iyidobi said.

It was gathered that on the same night, suspected armed robbers attacked Ezimo community in Udenu LGA, killing a policeman on duty at the residence of former Force Police Public Relations Officer, Frank Mbah, a Deputy Inspector General of Police. Nsukka and Udenu LGAs share boundaries, raising concerns over rising insecurity in the area.

The Enugu State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the killing.