Gov Ododo directs security agencies to unmask killers of catholic priest

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Kogi State Government has condemned the killing of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi of St. Paul Parish, Ayetoro Gbede, with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo directing security agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the crime.

The government described the murder as a heinous and barbaric act that has shocked the state, assuring the Catholic Church, the family of the deceased and residents that no effort would be spared in ensuring justice is served.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the government expressed profound sadness over the priest’s death and extended its condolences to the Catholic Diocese, the Christian community and the bereaved family.

“The murder of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi is a painful tragedy that has saddened the Government and the people of Kogi State. We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms and assure the Church and the family of the deceased that the perpetrators will not escape justice,” the statement said.

Ododo

According to the government, Governor Ododo has instructed all relevant security agencies to carry out a painstaking, professional and intelligence-driven investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing, with a mandate to identify everyone connected to the crime and ensure they face the full weight of the law.

The government said it had absolute confidence in the professionalism and operational capacity of security agencies to unravel the incident, which occurred on July 29, 2026, adding that the state would provide every necessary support to facilitate the investigation.

It stressed that protecting lives and property remains a top priority of the Ododo administration, noting that ongoing collaboration with security agencies has continued to strengthen safety across Kogi State.

The government also appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with investigators by providing credible information that could assist in tracking down the perpetrators. It cautioned against the spread of rumours, misinformation or unverified claims capable of undermining ongoing investigations or creating unnecessary tension.

Reaffirming its commitment to justice and public safety, the Kogi State Government assured citizens that it would continue to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property while ensuring that those behind the killing of the Catholic priest are brought to justice.