Gunmen allegedly assassinated Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya, parish priest of St. Charles Catholic Church in Eha-Ndiagu, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, on Friday, September 19, 2025. Here are the key details:
– Circumstances of Death: Fr. Eya was shot dead by gunmen on a motorcycle while returning home from an engagement in Enugu. The attackers shot at his vehicle’s tires, forcing it to stop, and then fired multiple shots at close range.
– Location: The incident occurred near an ongoing healthcare delivery project in Eha-Ndiagu, Nsukka Local Government Area.
– Motive: The motives behind the attack are still unclear, but some believe it may have been an assassination rather than a failed kidnapping attempt, given the manner of the attack and the fact that Fr. Eya was alone in the vehicle.
– Reaction: The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka has confirmed the killing, with Chancellor Rev. Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi expressing deep sorrow over the loss and urging the faithful to remain steadfast in prayer.
– Investigation: The Enugu State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but investigations are expected to begin soon.
Fr. Mathew Eya was known for his dedication to pastoral work and community development, and his untimely death has left the Nsukka Catholic community in mourning.
