Unidentified gunmen have killed Reverend Father Mathew Eya, the parish priest of St. Charles Catholic Church in Eha-Ndiagu, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State. The attack occurred on the evening of Friday, September 19, 2025, along the Eha-Alumona–Eha-Ndiagu Road.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants, riding on motorcycles, intercepted the priest’s vehicle near an ongoing Type C hospital project. They shot and deflated the tyres of his car, forcing it to stop, before firing multiple shots at close range. The priest died instantly at the scene. Initial reports suggesting the involvement of kidnappers or other passengers were unverified, with sources indicating the attack appeared to be a targeted assassination.
The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Chancellor, Reverend Father Cajetan Iyidobi. The diocese expressed profound shock and sorrow, describing the killing as a “devastating anguish” and urging prayers for the soul of the deceased and strength for the community. Father Eya hailed from Ugbaike in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
As of the time of reporting, the Enugu State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident. The killing has sparked tension and grief in the region, with calls for improved security measures to protect clergy and residents alike.
