Gunmen have assassinated Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya, parish priest of St. Charles Catholic Church, Eha-Ndiagu, in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The attack took place on Friday evening as the cleric was returning to his parish along the Eha-Ndiagu Road. Armed men on a motorcycle reportedly intercepted his vehicle and shot him dead on the spot.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka confirmed the killing and expressed deep sorrow.
Chancellor of the diocese, Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi, described the news as devastating, urging the faithful to remain prayerful despite the tragedy.
“It is with crushing pain and sorrow, yet total submission to God’s will and firm hope in the resurrection, that I announce the tragic death of our brother, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya. He was shot dead yesterday, 19 September 2025, along the Eha-Alumona – Eha-Ndiagu Road. Let us remain steadfast in prayer. May his soul rest in peace. Amen,” the statement read.
As at press time, the Enugu State Police Command had not released an official statement regarding the assassination.