The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi has confirmed the tragic murder of Reverend Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo, who was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Ihiala, Anambra State, on Boxing Day.
Fr. Okonkwo, who was also a trained pharmacist, was killed along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway between 7 pm and 8 pm.
His death comes just two weeks after the abduction of 75-year-old retired Anglican Archbishop, Most Reverend Godwin Okpala, who has been missing ever since.
A statement from Rev. Fr. Raphael Ezeogu, Chancellor of the Diocese, expressed deep sorrow over the priest’s death, calling it a devastating loss, but also urging the faithful to trust in divine comfort during this difficult time.
Fr. Okonkwo, born on August 11, 1984, was ordained a priest on July 11, 2015.
At the time of his death, he was managing the Schools of Nursing, Midwifery, and Medical Laboratory at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Ihiala.
The Diocese of Nnewi has called on the faithful to offer prayers and Holy Masses for Fr. Okonkwo’s eternal rest and to support his grieving family.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
