OBODO, Nigeria – A Catholic priest in Obodo, Amaimo community of Ikeduru Local Government Area, Imo State, has been arrested after a stray bullet from his revolver killed a 20-year-old man and injured another during a New Year’s Eve crossover mass at St Columbus Catholic Church.
The priest, Rev. Father Joseph Enyinnaya, reportedly fired shots into the air to disperse a group of young men who were setting off knockout explosives near the church.
A stray bullet fatally struck one of the boys, causing shockwaves across the community.
Community Reaction and Church Response
The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, described the incident as “unfortunate” and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
“The Archdiocese of Owerri highly regrets the shooting incident that took place on the eve of the New Year… leading to the death of the young man and wounding of another,” Ugorji said in a statement.
He confirmed that the police were investigating the matter and called for calm within the parish.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the boys were throwing bangers during the mass, causing alarm among attendees.
“The parish priest came out and shot in the air to probably scare the boys, but one of the bullets hit the deceased. We believe it was a mistake,” said a resident close to the church.
Villagers’ Silence and Community Tension
The atmosphere in the community remains tense, with many residents reluctant to speak openly about the incident.
A youth leader, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the deceased was not from their village but declined to provide further details.
“We don’t know much about what happened,” the youth leader said cautiously.
The silence has led to speculation of a possible cover-up, but others have urged patience until the ongoing police investigation concludes.
Questions Over Firearm Possession
The incident has also raised questions about why a Catholic priest was armed.
“We do not know that men of God carry arms,” a surprised resident remarked.
Some community members defended the priest, noting his long-standing service and integrity.
Policarp Opara, the church’s catechist, stated, “I know the reverend father well; he couldn’t have shot anyone deliberately. He is a good priest, recently celebrated for his Silver Jubilee.”
Police Investigation
Rev. Father Enyinnaya has been detained by the Imo State Police Command.
The state police spokesperson, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed the arrest and assured the public that investigations were underway to uncover the circumstances of the shooting.
The traditional ruler of Obodo Amaimo, HRH Eze VC Achionye, acknowledged the incident but has yet to provide an official comment.
Meanwhile, the parish council is expected to convene a meeting to discuss the incident.
Broader Concerns
The tragedy has sparked debate over the use of firearms in religious settings and the role of knockout explosives during public celebrations.
While some residents berated the young men for disrupting the mass, others focused on the need for accountability in the use of firearms.
As investigations continue, the community remains gripped by anxiety, awaiting answers to a tragedy that has marred the start of the new year.
