The Diocese of Okene (Anglican Communion) has called for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of all those involved in the attempted assassination of one of its priests, Rev. Isaac Bello, following a violent attack in Ege, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Rev. Bello, who serves as the Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ege, was reportedly attacked while preparing to host fellow priests for a diocesan mission outreach scheduled to hold in Urovo-Ochinomi, a neighbouring community.
According to the Diocese, three suspected assailants allegedly launched the attack with the apparent intention of abducting the cleric. During the assault, Rev. Bello sustained serious injuries, including a deep stab wound to the middle of his head and cuts to one of his fingers.
The Diocese disclosed that the priest’s cries for help attracted neighbours and residents, who mobilised and confronted the attackers.
Their intervention reportedly disrupted the operation, leading to the escape of two suspects while one was apprehended by members of the community.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Bishop of the Diocese of Okene, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Onsachi, the Diocese said the arrested suspect was allegedly found wearing a vest containing charms and amulets.
According to eyewitnesses cited in the statement, the suspect only began to feel the effects of the beating he received after the charms were removed.
To preserve the suspect for interrogation, residents reportedly rushed him to Abdulsalam Hospital in Nagazi for treatment before handing him over to officers at the Police Station in Ogaminana, where he is currently undergoing interrogation.
The Diocese noted that several videos and reports circulating on social media, particularly on Facebook, had generated public interest, with some alleging that the suspect made certain revelations, including mentioning the name of an individual purportedly linked to the mission.
However, the church urged the public to avoid speculation and allow security agencies to conduct a professional investigation.
“As members of the Body of Christ and adherents of the Anglican Communion, we firmly believe in justice, fairness and lawful procedures,” the statement read.
The Diocese vowed not to relent until those responsible for the attack and their sponsors are identified and brought to justice.
It also commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his efforts in tackling insecurity in Kogi State and prayed for divine guidance and protection for security personnel working to combat criminal activities across the state.
Expressing concern over what it described as recurring security challenges confronting Christians in Kogi Central, the Diocese lamented that many worshippers and clergy had suffered attacks over the years.
It described the latest incident as “painful and unacceptable” and called for decisive action against all those connected to the attempted assassination.
The statement further urged Christians, community leaders and residents of Kogi State to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and continue to pray for peace and security in the state.
The statement was copied to the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Chairman of Adavi Local Government Area, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, the Ohi of Adavi, as well as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Kogi Central.
