The killing of a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Oyetoro, in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State has sparked widespread outrage among parishioners and residents, with calls mounting for security agencies to swiftly arrest and prosecute those responsible.
Rev. Fr. Oyetoro, who was serving at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Ajaokuta, was reportedly found dead by the roadside with multiple stab wounds allegedly inflicted by unidentified attackers.
The incident has plunged the Catholic community into mourning, with worshippers describing the killing as a senseless and barbaric act.
An atmosphere of grief enveloped St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church as parishioners gathered to mourn the cleric, who was widely regarded as a dedicated servant of God. Church members said Fr. Oyetoro was serving as a visiting priest at the parish, having previously ministered at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Egbe.
According to parishioners, the late priest had celebrated Mass on the day of the incident while standing in for the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Clement Wesaku, who was reportedly away on a two-week leave.
Speaking on the tragic development, the Chairman of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Louis Izugwu, described the priest’s death as a devastating loss to the church and the wider community.
He called on security agencies to leave no stone unturned in tracking down those behind the killing and ensuring they face the full weight of the law.
Another church member, Fowoyo John, expressed shock over the incident, recalling the priest’s interactions with worshippers shortly before his death. He urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the incident and said an investigation has commenced.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Afusat Salihu, stated that the command was committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the murder and apprehending those responsible.
According to the police spokesperson, efforts are ongoing to identify the assailants and determine the motive behind the attack.
As grief continues to spread across the Catholic community and the wider Ajaokuta area, parishioners have reiterated their demand for justice, insisting that those responsible for the gruesome murder of Rev. Fr. Samuel Oyetoro must be arrested and prosecuted.
The killing has also renewed concerns about security in the area, with residents calling on authorities to strengthen measures aimed at protecting lives and property.
