Diocese Demands Probe Of Attack On Priest

The Diocese of Okene (Anglican Communion) has called for an investigation into the attempt on the life of one of its priests, Rev. Isaac Bello, and the prosecution of the culprits following a recent violent attack in Ege, Adavi local government area of Kogi State.

Rev. Bello, the vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ege, was reportedly attacked while preparing to host priests on a diocesan mission outreach at Urovo-Ochinomi, a neighbouring community.

According to the diocese, three suspects allegedly carried out the attack with the apparent intention of abducting the cleric. During the assault, Rev. Bello sustained serious injuries, including a deep wounds to his head and fingers.

The diocese said the priest’s cries for help attracted neighbours and residents who confronted the attackers.

Their intervention disrupted the operation, leading to the escape of two suspects while one was apprehended by members of the community.

In a statement issued Thursday by the Bishop of the Diocese of Okene, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Onsachi, the diocese said the arrested suspect was wearing a vest containing charms and amulets.

To preserve the suspect for interrogation, residents reportedly rushed him to the Abdulsalam Hospital in Nagazi for treatment before handing him over to the police station in Ogaminana, where he is currently undergoing interrogation.

The diocese noted that several videos and reports circulating on social media, particularly on Facebook, had generated public interest, with some alleging that the suspect made certain revelations, including mentioning the name of an individual purportedly linked to the mission.

However, the church urged the public to avoid speculation and allow security agencies to conduct a professional investigation.

“As members of the Body of Christ and adherents of the Anglican Communion, we firmly believe in justice, fairness and lawful procedures,” the statement said.

It vowed not to relent until those responsible for the attack and their sponsors are identified and brought to justice.

Expressing concern over what it described as recurring security challenges confronting Christians in Kogi Central, the Diocese lamented that many worshippers and clergy had suffered attacks over the years.

The statement was copied to the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Chairman of Adavi Local Government Area, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, the Ohi of Adavi, as well as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Kogi Central.