In a tragic incident on Christmas Eve, three worshippers were killed by suspected hoodlums during a vigil mass at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Nkweagu, in Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The attack, which occurred at 11:30 pm on Sunday, has been condemned by the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Nworie.
Bishop Nworie disclosed the unfortunate event during Monday’s Christmas service at Saint Theresa Cathedral Church. Describing the incident as sad and disheartening, he prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls. The bishop explained that the suspected killers invaded the church while a priest was celebrating a vigil mass service, resulting in the death and injury of many worshippers.
According to Bishop Nworie, such an act of violence is unprecedented in the church and in Ebonyi State in general. “This is the first time such an incident has happened in the church and in Ebonyi State,” the bishop noted.
Earlier in his sermon, the cleric encouraged people to align themselves with the significance and teachings of Christmas. He urged the faithful to pray for the unity and progress of the state and the nation.
Efforts to get a reaction from the Ebonyi State Police Command have so far been fruitless, as the command is yet to appoint a new spokesperson. As the community mourns this tragic loss, the hope is for justice to be served and for peace to prevail.
