A Catholic priest allegedly shot and killed a boy who set off fireworks during the New Year Mass on January 1, 2025, in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State. The incident occurred within the church premises, and the identity of the priest involved remains unknown. The tragic event has left the local community in shock and mourning, sparking outrage and calls for a thorough investigation.
A Facebook post shared on Wednesday through the ‘For The Love Of Anambra’ page highlighted the gravity of the situation, with residents demanding clarity on the circumstances surrounding the shooting. One social media user, Buka Tee, expressed concern, writing, “Please let there be proper and comprehensive investigation regarding this Matter. It should not be swept under the carpet. It’s highly and gravely disheartening.”
Another user, Malachy Chukwunyereugo, commented, “He will spend the rest of his life in prison.” However, some individuals defended the priest’s actions. Icha Joseph argued that the shooting was an act of self-defense, noting that “Rev fathers are being murdered every day in the East; they can’t be too careful.” He also mentioned the Nigerian police’s ban on the use of fireworks, emphasizing the insecurity in the region.
Steve Idealmann expressed sympathy for the priest, stating, “The father shouldn’t be judged considering what happened in my church yesterday… how can you target fireworks at worshippers during service rather than towards the sky it was meant for?” Lastly, Elochukwu Obiegbu questioned the priest’s possession of a firearm, saying, “Who gave the Rev father a gun or who licensed a gun to him, that is the first question to be directed to the priest.”
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