3 worshippers were tragically killed during an attack on Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Nkweagu, Ebonyi State.

In a devastating turn of events, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Nkweagu, Ebonyi State, fell victim to an attack by unknown gunmen around 11:30 pm on Sunday, resulting in the tragic death of three worshippers. Among the victims was a well-known POS operator from Nkwuagu market, who, after receiving a call, was lured out of the church only to be fatally shot.

The repercussions of this heinous act extended beyond the loss of lives, plunging the entire community into mourning and disrupting economic activities, notably at the bustling Nkwuagu market along the Abakaliki/Afikpo express road on Christmas Day. This incident followed closely on the heels of a recent student killing in Nkwuagu, indicative of a concerning escalation in cult-related clashes within the community.

Despite attempts to seek official statements, both the Commissioner of Police, CP Augustina Ogbodo, and the PPRO remained unresponsive to calls and messages. In response to the tragedy, the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Nworie, unequivocally condemned the gruesome murder during a vigil mass service. He expressed profound sadness, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of such an incident within the church and the broader context of Ebonyi State. As the community grapples with shock and grief, there is an urgent call for justice and a comprehensive investigation into the motives behind this senseless act of violence.