Late Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya. Facebook/Catholic Diocese of Nsukka
Enugu State Police Command has intensified efforts to apprehend the killers of a Catholic priest, Reverend Father Matthew Eya, tragically shot dead on the night of September 19. Father Eya was killed on Eha-Ndiagu Eha-Etiti Road in the Eha-Alumona area of Nsukka Local Government.
In a statement released on Sunday, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that the State’s Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mamman Giwa, has ordered a thorough investigation and vowed to leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“The CP has directed the Area Commander of Udenu and heads of Tactical and Operational Units to ensure that the killers are traced and arrested,” Ndukwe said.
Following extensive searches in the area, police operatives from the Udenu Area Command have detained 38 suspects, some of whom are currently undergoing screening.
Incriminating evidence has been recovered during the operation, and authorities are working to narrow down the culprits. The Commissioner also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and the Catholic Church, emphasizing the police’s commitment to solving this case.
Meanwhile, the Enugu State Government has condemned the murder and expressed deep sympathy with the bereaved. Dr. Malachy Agbo, the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, described the late priest as a “symbol of peace and service” and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives.
“The Enugu State Government strongly condemns this dastardly act and stands in solidarity with the family of the late priest, the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, and all Catholic faithful,” Agbo said.
In response to the tragedy, the state government has announced a ₦10 million bounty for anyone who provides credible information leading to the arrest of those responsible.
“Anybody with credible information about the perpetrators should quickly contact 07077451426,” the Commissioner urged, adding that technology and intelligence would be used to track down the criminals.
The government has also called on residents to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with law enforcement in order to rid the state of criminal activity.
“We will not spare any resources within our reach to track down the criminals and defeat the remnants of evil in the state,” Agbo emphasized.
The police are urging the public to continue assisting with information and remain cautious as the investigation unfolds.
