Catholic priest murdered in Edo

Charles Igechi, a priest under the Benin Catholic Archdiocese, has been reported killed.

The priest was shot dead by gunmen on Wednesday along Agbor Road in the Ikhueniro axis of Benin, the Edo capital.

A statement on Thursday by the Catholic Archbishop of Benin, Augustine Akubeze confirmed the incident.

The religious leader noted that the police have been informed and urged the security agency to apprehend the perpetrators.

Akubeze said the deceased, ordained last year, was ambushed and shot on his way back to his place of duty.

The remains of Igechi were found at Boundary Street in Ikpoba Hill, under Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.

“Rev. Fr. Charles Onomhoale Igechi, who was ordained on August 13, 2022, was the Vice Principal of St. Michael College, Ikhueniro.

“We received the news this morning that he was shot on his way back to his place of assignment…We wish to solicit your prayers for the happy repose of his soul.”

Father Akubeze announced a Mass for Igechi on June 9, 2023, at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre’s Chapel at 10:00 a.m.