- Community Demands Justice as Police Investigate Fatal Shooting
- Incident Sparks Outrage and Questions Over Clergy Gun Ownership
Tragedy struck during a New Year’s Day Mass in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, when a Catholic Reverend Father allegedly shot and killed a boy who had set off firecrackers within the church premises.
The shocking incident, which occurred on January 1, 2025, has left the community in grief and outrage. Eyewitnesses claim that after the boy ignited the knockouts, the priest, whose identity remains undisclosed, retrieved a firearm and fatally shot the victim.
Social media erupted with reactions as news of the incident spread. One Facebook user, Malachy Chukwunyereugo, wrote, “He will spend the rest of his life in prison.” Another user, Lyn Chy, expressed disbelief, commenting, “The fact that a Reverend Father owns a gun is troubling.”
Peace Ijeoma criticized religious bias, stating, “It’s disheartening to see religious bigots defending the priest. May we focus on being lovers of God, not of the men of God, in 2025. RIP to the boy.”
On X (formerly Twitter), users also weighed in. A tweep identified as Bloc Chief remarked, “I thought this only happens in the USA? How can this happen in Imo? Mehn.” Another, tweeting as #asababoi2man, speculated, “Maybe he thought he was under attack. Only God knows what he was thinking.”
The Imo State Police Command confirmed awareness of the incident and has launched an investigation. Spokesperson Henry Okoye assured the public of a thorough inquiry. “We have initiated a detailed investigation to uncover the facts surrounding this unfortunate event. Further updates will be provided,” he said.
The incident has raised questions about the priest’s possession of a firearm and the circumstances leading to its use. Meanwhile, the community continues to mourn the boy’s death, with residents calling for accountability and justice.
