Nsukka Diocese Faults Arise TV Over Claims Linking Priests’ Deaths to IPOB
The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka has refuted a report aired by Arise Television alleging that two of its priests were killed by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
During its Morning Show on Thursday, Arise Television, quoting a security analyst, claimed that the late Very Rev. Fr. John Igwebueze and Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya were murdered by IPOB operatives—an assertion that reportedly included claims of the group taking responsibility. The report was presented in a broader narrative suggesting that Christians in Enugu were attacking fellow Christians, contradicting accusations of widespread killings of Christians nationwide.
But in a statement signed by the Director of Communications of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel I. Asadu, the Church described the broadcast as misleading and completely false.
According to the Diocese, Fr. Igwebueze had battled a long-term illness since 2012 and passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at Bishop Shanahan Hospital, Nsukka, following complications from the ailment.
On the death of Fr. Matthew Eya, the Diocese explained that he was shot on September 19, 2025, by unknown assailants while returning to his parish after a pastoral assignment. It added that security agencies were still investigating the incident and that no group or individual had claimed responsibility.
“As we await the outcome of security investigations, we urge the media and the general public to exercise caution and avoid conflating unrelated events,” the Diocese stated. “Accuracy is crucial, especially when dealing with sensitive matters involving human lives.”
The Church extended condolences to the families of the deceased priests and assured them of continued prayers.
Meanwhile, in a separate tragic development, Nigerians were thrown into mourning on Wednesday following the killing of Venerable Edwin Achi of the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna. Achi was reportedly shot dead by terrorists despite payment of ransom. His wife and daughter remain in captivity at the time of this report.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
