Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A Catholic priest, Reverend Father Samuel Opeyemi Oyetoro, has been killed by unidentified assailants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, in an incident that has sent shockwaves through the Catholic community and renewed concerns over the safety of religious leaders in Nigeria. The cleric was reportedly attacked on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, along the Ajaokuta Road, where he was allegedly stabbed multiple times before his lifeless body was discovered dumped by the roadside.
According to multiple reports, the circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, and the motive behind the killing has yet to be established. Security authorities have not announced any arrests in connection with the incident as of the time of this report. Reverend Father Oyetoro was born in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, and hailed from Ayetoro in Ijumu Local Government Area. Until his death, he served as the resident priest of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Egbe, where he was widely respected for his commitment to pastoral service, evangelisation, and community development.
The Catholic Diocese of Lokoja confirmed his death in an official statement, calling on priests, religious faithful, and the laity to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. "We kindly request all priests, religious and laity to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul during their Holy Masses and personal prayers, and to pray for strength and consolation for his aged parents, siblings, parishioners and the entire Diocese of Lokoja during this time of grief," the statement read.
News of his death has triggered an outpouring of condolences from Catholic faithful, fellow clergy, and residents of Kogi State, many of whom described him as a humble and dedicated servant of God whose ministry touched numerous lives. Tributes shared by members of the Catholic community expressed deep sorrow over the loss, while calling on security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the killing are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
The incident has also renewed concerns over the persistent security challenges facing parts of Kogi State and other regions of Nigeria, where cases of violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings have continued to pose serious threats to residents and religious leaders. Church members have urged the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and places of worship, stressing that attacks on clergy and other innocent citizens undermine public confidence and social stability.
As investigations continue, the Catholic community remains in mourning, remembering Reverend Father Oyetoro as a devoted priest who served faithfully until his tragic death. No official statement had been issued by the Kogi State Police Command at the time this report was filed, while the Catholic Diocese is expected to announce details of funeral arrangements in due course.
The killing of Reverend Father Samuel Opeyemi Oyetoro is a stark reminder of the growing insecurity in Nigeria, where religious leaders and ordinary citizens alike have become targets of violent attacks. The Catholic Diocese of Lokoja has called for prayers for the repose of his soul and for strength for his bereaved family and parishioners, while the wider Christian community awaits justice for a man who dedicated his life to serving God and his flock.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments