The Kogi State Government has condemned the killing of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi of St. Paul Parish, Ayetoro Gbede, describing it as heinous and unacceptable.
The state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Chief Kingsley Fanwo, disclosed this in a statement issued in Lokoja on Friday.
Fanwo said Governor Ahmed Ododo had directed security agencies to unravel those behind the killing and ensure they are brought to justice.
He said the government was deeply saddened by the death and commiserated with the Catholic Church, the Diocese of Lokoja, the family of the deceased and the Christian community.
“The murder of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi is a painful tragedy that has saddened the government and people of Kogi State. We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms and assure the Church and the family of the deceased that the perpetrators will not escape justice,” the statement read.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed all security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, identify everyone connected with the crime and ensure they face the full weight of the law.” He noted.
Fanwo said the government had absolute confidence in the capacity of security agencies to unravel the incident which occurred on July 29, 2026, and assured that it would provide all necessary support to ensure justice is served.
He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information, while cautioning against spreading rumours capable of undermining investigation.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property and pledged to continue to strengthen security across the state.
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