The Catholic community in Enugu State is reeling after the shocking murder of Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya, parish priest of St. Charles Catholic Church, Eha-Ndiagu, in Nsukka Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Friday evening, September 19, 2025, as the priest was returning to his parish along the Eha-Ndiagu Road. Eyewitness accounts suggest that armed men, reportedly on a motorcycle, intercepted his vehicle and shot him dead instantly.
Confirming the sad development, the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka issued a statement on Saturday, expressing deep sorrow over the killing. The statement, signed by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi, read:
“Shocked to the marrow, it is with crushing pain and sorrow, yet a total submission to the will of the Almighty God and a firm hope in the resurrection of the dead, that I inform you of the tragic death of yet another brother of ours, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya.
He was shot dead yesterday, 19 September 2025 along Eha-Alumona – Eha-Ndiagu road.
Let us remain ardent in prayer that God sees us through this period of devastating anguish. May his soul rest in peace. Amen.”
The Enugu State Police Command has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.
This tragedy adds to a worrying rise in attacks on Catholic priests across Nigeria, with cases of abduction and killings leaving many communities shaken and fearful.
Parishioners and colleagues of the late priest describe him as a devoted servant of God whose loss will leave a lasting void in the Nsukka Catholic community.
-Deeprows News
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