A Catholic priest serving in Kogi State has been found dead by the roadside with several machete wounds, prompting a police investigation and a directive from the state government to identify and arrest those responsible.
The deceased was identified as Reverend Father Samuel Opeyemi, who served with the Catholic Church and was linked to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Egbe.
He was a native of Ayetoro in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State and was born in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area.
The incident was reported to the Kogi State Police Command on July 29, 2026, after the body of a man was discovered along Church Road in Ajaokuta.
Police operatives who arrived at the scene found the priest with serious machete wounds, particularly around his head.
His body was taken to a hospital, where he was confirmed dead before being moved to a mortuary for an autopsy.
The police said investigations had commenced to establish what happened and determine the people behind the killing.
Security operatives have also been directed to intensify efforts to track down those responsible for the attack.
The death has also attracted a response from the Kogi State Government, which expressed concern over the killing and directed security agencies to carry out a detailed investigation.
The government said Governor Usman Ododo had ordered security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the priest’s death, identify everyone connected to the incident and ensure that those found responsible are prosecuted.
The state government also extended its condolences to the Catholic Church, the relevant diocese, the deceased priest’s family and the wider Christian community following the incident.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said the government would support the security agencies as they work to uncover what led to the priest’s death.
Residents were also urged to remain calm and assist investigators by providing useful information that could help with the case.
The government cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified information while the investigation is still ongoing.
The authorities said efforts would continue to improve security across the state and protect residents and their property.
