Kogi Mourns as Gunmen Kill Catholic Priest

A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi Oyetoro, has reportedly been killed by unidentified gunmen in Ajaokuta, Kogi State.

According to reports, the priest was attacked along the Ajaokuta Road on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, where he was allegedly stabbed multiple times. His lifeless body was later discovered by the roadside. The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, while security authorities are yet to issue a detailed statement on the incident.
Rev. Fr. Oyetoro was born in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, and hailed from Ayetoro in Ijumu Local Government Area. Until his death, he served as a priest at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Egbe.
The Catholic Diocese of Lokoja confirmed the incident in a statement, urging priests, religious faithful and members of the laity to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
The Diocese also appealed for prayers for strength and consolation for his aged parents, siblings, parishioners and the entire Diocese of Lokoja as they mourn the painful loss.
Security agencies are expected to investigate the killing and identify those responsible for the attack.