Gunmen in Benin City, Edo State, have reportedly shot and killed Reverend Father Charles Igechi from the Benin Archdiocese. The incident occurred on Wednesday along the Agbor Road, Ikhueniro area, as the priest was on his way to his place of assignment. Catholic Archbishop Augustine Akubeze has informed the police about the incident and hopes that justice will be served. In a condolence statement issued on Thursday, Akubeze revealed that Father Igechi, who was ordained in August 2022 and served as the Vice Principal of St. Michael College, Ikhueniro, was shot in the back. His body was discovered near Boundary Street in Ikpoba Hill, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, Edo State. Prayers have been requested for the peaceful repose of his soul, and a Mass will be held on June 9, 2023, at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre’s Chapel at 10:00am. The statement concludes with a plea for the intercession of Our Lady of Sorrow and for the protection of all the faithful in the Archdiocese of Benin City, while praying for Father Charles Igechi’s soul to find peace in the embrace of our risen Saviour.
