By STEPHEN ADELEYE

The Kogi government has condemned the gruesome killing of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi of St. Paul Catholic Parish, Ayetoro Gbede in the state, describing it as a heinous and unacceptable act.

In a statement on Friday in Lokoja, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, said Gov.Ahmed Ododo has ordered security agencies to conduct a thorough and speedy investigation into the incident.

Fanwo said the governor had directed all security agencies to unravel those behind the crime and ensure they faced the full wrath of the law.

“The murder of Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi is a painful tragedy that has saddened the government and people of Kogi.

“We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms and assure the Church and the family of the deceased that the perpetrators will not escape justice,” Fanwo said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the priest was killed on Wednesday, July 29.

The commissioner expressed sadness over the death and extended condolences to the Catholic Church, the Diocese, family of the deceased and the entire Christian community in the state.

The commissioner said the governor had mandated security agencies to carry out a “painstaking, professional and comprehensive investigation” to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and identify everyone connected with the crime.

“We have absolute confidence in the professionalism and capacity of our security agencies to unravel this unfortunate incident.

“The government will continue to provide every necessary support to ensure that justice is served and those responsible are held accountable,” Fanwo stated.

Fanwo also called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives by volunteering credible information that could assist the investigation.

He cautioned against the spread of rumours or unverified information capable of undermining the process.

The commissioner reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protection of lives and property, and assured residents that it would continue to strengthen security across Kogi in collaboration with all relevant agencies. (NAN)

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