The Diocese of Okene (Anglican Communion) has called for a thorough investigation into the violent attack on one of its priests, Rev. Isaac Bello and the prosecution of the culprits.
Rev. Bello, the vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ege, was reportedly attacked while preparing to host priests on a diocesan mission outreach at Urovo-Ochinomi, a neighbouring community.
According to the diocese, three suspects allegedly carried out the attack with the apparent intention of abducting the cleric.
The diocese said the priest’s cries for help attracted neighbours and residents who confronted the attackers.
Their intervention disrupted the operation, leading to the escape of two suspects while one was apprehended by members of the community.
However, during the assault, Rev. Bello sustained serious injuries, including a deep wounds to his head and fingers.
In a statement issued Thursday by the Bishop of the Diocese of Okene, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Onsachi, the diocese said the arrested suspect was wearing a vest containing charms and amulets.
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.
To preserve the suspect for interrogation, residents reportedly rushed him to the Abdulsalam Hospital in Nagazi for treatment before handing him over to the police station in Ogaminana, where he is currently undergoing interrogation.
“As members of the Body of Christ and adherents of the Anglican Communion, we firmly believe in justice, fairness and lawful procedures,” the statement said.
It vowed not to relent until those responsible for the attack and their sponsors are identified and brought to justice.
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.
