Gunmen kill Catholic priest in Kogi

A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi Oyetoro, has reportedly been killed by unidentified assailants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.

According to reports, the priest was attacked along the Ajaokuta Road on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, where he was allegedly stabbed multiple times. His body was later found by the roadside.

The circumstances surrounding the killing remain unclear, and security authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement on the incident.

Rev. Fr. Oyetoro was born in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, and hailed from Ayetoro in Ijumu Local Government Area. Until his death, he served at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Egbe.

The Catholic Diocese of Lokoja confirmed his death in a statement, calling on priests, religious and the faithful to pray for the repose of his soul.

“We kindly request all priests, religious and laity to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul during their Holy Masses and personal prayers, and to pray for strength and consolation for his aged parents, siblings, parishioners and the entire Diocese of Lokoja during this time of grief,” the statement said.

Authorities are expected to investigate the incident to determine those responsible for the killing.