Gunmen Strike Along Onitsha-Owerri Expressway
In a tragic turn of events, Reverend Father Tobias Okonkwo, a priest from the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, was brutally killed by gunmen on Thursday evening. The attack took place along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway in Anambra State, marking a distressing increase in violence against religious figures in the region.
Details of the Incident
The Diocese of Nnewi confirmed the priest’s death in a letter dated December 27, 2024, signed by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Raphael Ezeogu. Father Okonkwo, born on August 11, 1984, and ordained on July 11, 2015, was known for his dedication to both his faith and his profession as a pharmacist.
Call for Prayers and Reflection
In response to this tragic loss, the diocese has called upon the Catholic community to engage in prayers and Holy Masses for the eternal peace of Father Okonkwo. The letter from the diocese poignantly stated, “Where sorrow increases, divine consolation increases all the more,” reflecting the community’s grief and faith in divine comfort.
Community and Church Reaction
Father Tobias was actively involved in managing the Schools of Nursing, Midwifery, and Medical Laboratory at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala. His sudden death has left a void in both the community and the church, with the diocese asking for prayers to console the bereaved. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
Ongoing Security Concerns
As of now, there has been no official response from the police regarding this incident. This assassination follows another recent case where a retired Archbishop, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, was reported missing, highlighting a concerning trend of attacks on religious leaders in the area.
This series of violent acts against clergy members underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect these community leaders.
