A Catholic priest of Nnewi Diocese, Anambra State, Rev. Fr Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo, has been killed by some gunmen in Anambra State.
The cleric was shot dead on 26th December, 2024 by unidentified assailants along Owerri-Onitsha expressway around 7 and 8pm.
Until his murder, Fr Okonkwo was a pharmacist and priest in charge of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala, Anambra State.
Confirming the attack and death of the 40-year-old priest, the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, in an obituary dated December 27, 2024, solicited prayers for his eternal joy.
The obituary signed by Rev. Fr. Raphael Ezeogu, Chancellor of Nnewi Diocese, revealed that the deceased priest was born on August 11 1984; ordained on July 11 2015 and died on December 26, 2024.
“Beloved in the risen Christ; Where sorrow increases, divine consolation increases all the more.
“The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi announces, with sorrow, but with stronger faith, that our dear Rev. Fr. Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo died yesterday, 26th December 2024. He was shot dead by unidentified assailants, at Ihiala, along Onitsha-Owerri Expressway around 7pm and 8pm.
“Till yesterday, Fr. Tobias, a pharmacist, and native of Ekwulumili in Nnewi South Local Government Area, was Manager of the respective Schools of Nursing, Midwifery, and Medical Laboratory at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Ihiala.
“We solicit your prayers and Holy Masses for his eternal joy. May Fr. Tobias rejoice in Paradise for ever Amen. May God console the bereaved.
“Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course,” the statement read.
