The Enugu State Government has strongly condemned the gruesome murder of Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka by unknown assailants.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, along the Eha-Alumona–Eha-Ndiagu road in Nsukka Local Government Area.
Reacting to the heartbreaking development, the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, Fr. Cajetan Iyidobi, said:
“Shocked to the marrow, it is with crushing pain and sorrow, yet a total submission to the will of the Almighty God and a firm hope in the resurrection of the dead, that I inform you of the tragic death of yet another brother of ours, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya.
“He was shot dead yesterday, 19 September 2025 along Eha-Alumona–Eha-Ndiagu road.
“Let us remain ardent in prayer that God sees us through this period of devastating anguish. May his soul rest in peace. Amen.”
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Uchenna Agbo, the Enugu State Government described the killing as “cowardly and cold-blooded.”
The government reiterated that the security of lives and property remains its top priority and vowed to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
It further stressed that the state has “the technology, human resources, and indeed a demonstrable capacity to track down and defeat the remnant workers of evil in the state.”
As part of its effort to fast-track investigations, the government announced a ₦10 million reward for anyone with credible information that could lead to the arrest of those behind the heinous crime.
“Anybody with credible information about this crime and any other possible breach of law and order should please quickly contact 07077451426,” the statement urged.
The government further extended heartfelt condolences to Rev. Fr. Eya’s family, the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, and the entire Catholic community, assuring them of its unwavering support during this painful period and praying for the peaceful repose of the late priest’s soul.
