Police Launch Manhunt for Killers of Catholic Priest Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya in Enugu

The Enugu State Police Command has begun a manhunt for the gunmen who assassinated Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya, the parish priest of St. Charles Catholic Church, Eha-Ndiagu, while he was returning to his parish on September 19, 2025.

The attackers, reportedly riding on a motorcycle, intercepted the priest’s vehicle along the Eha-Alumona–Eha-Ndiagu Road and shot him dead on the spot.

In response, Commissioner of Police Mamman Giwa has directed the Udenu Area Commander and tactical units to track down the assailants. As part of the operation, 38 suspects have been arrested during raids on black spots, and incriminating materials were recovered, according to police spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe.

Church Reacts:

The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka expressed deep sorrow over the killing.
In a statement signed by the Chancellor, Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi, the church prayed for Fr. Eya’s soul and called for peace amid the growing violence.

“Shocked to the marrow… yet in total submission to God’s will… we announce the tragic death of Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya,” the diocese said.

Context:

Fr. Eya's murder is the latest in a string of attacks on Catholic priests in Nigeria:

  • May 2025: Fr. Solomon Atongo was shot along the Makurdi–Naka road in Benue State.

  • March 2025: Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu was killed by kidnappers in Kaduna State.

The surge in violence against clergy has sparked renewed calls for better security and protection for religious leaders, especially in rural and volatile regions.

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