Kogi orders probe into killing of Catholic priest

The Kogi State Government has ordered a swift and thorough investigation into the "heinous and unacceptable" killing of Catholic priest Samuel Opeyemi. The priest's body was discovered on July 29, 2026, along Church Road in Ajaokuta Local Government Area, showing signs of multiple machete wounds.

Commissioner for Information and Communications Kingsley Fanwo announced the directive from Governor Ahmed Ododo, assuring the Catholic Church and the priest's family that perpetrators would face justice. "The murder of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi is a painful tragedy that has saddened the Government and the people of Kogi State," Fanwo stated, emphasizing the government's condemnation of the "barbaric act."

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The murder of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi is a painful tragedy that has saddened the Government and the people of Kogi State. We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms and assure the Church and the family of the deceased that the perpetrators will not escape justice.

Security agencies have been tasked with identifying everyone connected to the crime and ensuring they face the full extent of the law. The government expressed confidence in the security forces' ability to resolve the case, pledging full support for the investigation. Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with investigators.

The killing occurs against a backdrop of escalating security challenges in Kogi State. Recent weeks have seen a series of kidnappings and attacks, though some victims, including a school principal, a NECO official, and students, were later rescued in a joint operation. The discovery of Father Opeyemi's body, identified as belonging to the priest of St. Paul's Parish, Ayetoro Gbede, has intensified concerns about safety in the region.

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We have absolute confidence in the professionalism and capacity of our security agencies to unravel this unfortunate incident that happened on July 29, 2026. The Government will continue to provide every necessary support to ensure that justice is served and those responsible are held accountable.