In a distressing incident, unknown gunmen invaded the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Nkweagu, Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, resulting in the tragic death of three worshippers. The assailants reportedly attacked the church at approximately 11:30 pm on Sunday, unleashing mayhem within the community.
According to DAILY POST, the gunmen orchestrated the attack by summoning one of the victims, a well-known Point of Sale (POS) operator at Nkwuagu market, via phone to come out of the church. As soon as the individual stepped outside, they mercilessly shot and killed him. The brutal act sent shockwaves through the community, plunging it into mourning and disrupting economic activities, especially on Christmas Day, particularly at the bustling Nkwuagu market along the Abakaliki/Afikpo express road.
This incident follows a recent episode of violence in Nkwuagu, where a student lost his life due to cult clashes. The current attack brings the total fatalities to four within a short span of time. Investigations suggest a potential link between the killings at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and ongoing cult-related clashes between rival groups in Nkwuagu.
Despite attempts to obtain a reaction from the Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command, CP Augustina Ogbodo, and the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), there has been no response.
Responding swiftly to the tragedy, Most Rev. Peter Nworie, the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, condemned the brutal murder of the three Immaculate Conception Catholic Church worshippers on Christmas Eve. Expressing sorrow and dismay, Bishop Nworie disclosed that the suspected killers invaded the church during a vigil mass service, resulting in the death and injury of several individuals. He emphasized that this incident marked the first of its kind in the church and in Ebonyi State, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and security measures to prevent a recurrence.