The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka has disclaimed reports made by Arise Television over the death of two priests.
NewsBits reports that during its programme, Morning Show on Thursday, Arise Television, while quoting a security analyst, reported that two priests who passed on weeks ago were murdered by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, adding that the IPOB also claimed responsibility.
The report was made alongside the narrative that Christians were also killing Christians in Enugu, as against allegations of genocidal killing of Christians in the country. However, in a statement signed by Rev Fr. Emmanuel I. Asadu, Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, he described the claims as outright falsehood.
The statement reads in full: “The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka wishes to address the narrative by Arise Television this morning, 27 November 2025, concerning the death of Very Rev. Fr. John Igwebueze and Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya, who were buried on Friday, 21 November 2025, at St. Theresa’s Catholic Cathedral, Nsukka, Enugu State.
“We would like to clarify that Fr. John Igwebueze had been suffering from illness since June 2012 and peacefully died on Sunday, 21 September 2025, at Bishop Shanahan Hospital, Nsukka. His death was due to health complications arising from this long-standing condition.
“Fr. Matthew Eya on the other hand, was tragically shot on Friday, 19 September 2025, by yet to be identified individuals on his way back to his parish after a pastoral assignment. The security personnel have been investigating his death, and no individual or group has claimed responsibility.
“As we still wait for the security personnel and their investigation, we urge the media and the public to report responsibly and refrain from mixing unrelated incidents. Clarity and accuracy in reporting are essential, especially when dealing with sensitive issues like life and death.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of both priests and promise them our prayers during this difficult time.”
However, NewsBits reports that Nigerians were on Wednesday gripped with shock over the murder of a senior clergyman, Venerable Edwin Achi.
It has been revealed that Achi, of the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna, was shot dead by the terrorists even after a ransom had been paid to them. His wife and daughter are still in captivity as of the time of filing this report.
