Tragic Boxing Day Shooting Of Catholic Priest In Nigeria

Discover the tragic Boxing Day shooting of Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo in southeast Nigeria. Learn about the rising insecurity and its impact on the Christian community.

Gunmen Kill Catholic Priest in Southeast Nigeria on Boxing Day

Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo, a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Nnewi, was tragically shot and killed by unidentified gunmen on December 26, 2024. The incident occurred along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway near Ihiala, in Anambra State, Nigeria, between 7 and 8 p.m., according to a statement released by Father Raphael Ezeogu, the chancellor of the diocese.

Father Okonkwo, a trained pharmacist and administrator, was the manager of several institutions, including schools of nursing, midwifery, and medical laboratory services at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala. His untimely death marks a somber moment for the Christian community in Nigeria.

The Diocese of Nnewi has called for prayers and Holy Masses for the eternal repose of his soul. Meanwhile, local authorities, including the Anambra State Police, have yet to confirm details surrounding the incident.

Rising Violence in Nigeria

The killing of Father Okonkwo highlights the growing insecurity in Nigeria, where armed groups, often referred to as “bandits,” have been targeting Christians. These gangs are notorious for kidnappings, ransom demands, and violent attacks.

The year 2024 has been particularly alarming, with reports indicating a rise in kidnappings of Catholic priests. In November alone, three Catholic priests were abducted and later released. Data from the Nigerian bishops’ conference revealed that between September 2022 and August 2023, 21 priests were kidnapped.

Widespread Impact of Armed Gangs

Beyond clergy, civilians and schoolchildren have also been frequent targets of armed groups like the Fulani militia, regarded as one of the deadliest terror organizations globally. These attacks have led to mass displacements, farmland seizures, and economic devastation for Christian farming communities.

Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme of Maiduguri lamented the ongoing persecution, stating, “Christians have endured rejection and suffering at the hands of extremists and the state.”

Other Recent Tragedies

The death of Father Okonkwo adds to a series of recent tragedies faced by the Nigerian Catholic Church. On December 21, a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Abuja ended in a deadly stampede, killing 10 people and injuring eight. This incident, organized by the St. Vincent de Paul Society, underscored the harsh economic conditions driving desperation among Nigerians.

Earlier in December, other charity events left 67 people dead, further highlighting the severe economic hardships affecting the nation.

Conclusion

The Boxing Day killing of Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo serves as a stark reminder of the escalating insecurity and persecution faced by Christians in Nigeria. As the country grapples with these challenges, the Catholic Church and global community continue to call for prayers, justice, and lasting solutions to ensure safety and peace for all citizens.