Anglican Priest Fatally Shot by Gunmen in Adamawa Village
The Adamawa State Police Command has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the tragic killing of an Anglican cleric, Reverend Emmanuel Ezeokwe. This violent incident took place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, in Zinai Village, located within the Bolki area of Song Local Government Area in Adamawa State.
Police Confirm Details of the Attack
SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, the spokesperson for the Adamawa State Police Command, confirmed the event in an official statement released on Wednesday. According to the report, suspected gunmen invaded Zinai Village and shot Reverend Ezeokwe. The police received a report from a community member, Amos Sunday, at approximately 6:30 AM on April 21, detailing that the attack occurred around 12:48 AM earlier that same day.
Upon receiving the alert, police operatives swiftly moved to the scene. They discovered the lifeless body of the victim and immediately rushed him to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, a medical doctor confirmed that Reverend Ezeokwe had succumbed to his injuries. His body was subsequently deposited at the hospital morgue for an autopsy to be conducted.
Evidence and Police Response
Preliminary investigations at the scene led to the recovery of three empty shells from an AK-47 rifle, which have been secured as exhibits for the ongoing inquiry. In response to this heinous crime, the Commissioner of Police, CP Kabir Umar Hasaan, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to conduct a discreet and thorough investigation.
Additionally, tactical teams have been deployed to track down the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice. The police command has urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate by providing any useful information that could aid in the investigation. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses.
Anglican Diocese Mourns the Loss
Meanwhile, the Anglican Diocese of Yola has confirmed the incident through a statement shared on the church's social media platforms. Ven. Andrew Izuakor, the administrator to the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Yola, the Most Rev. Markus Ibrahim Izuakor, detailed that the attackers specifically targeted Reverend Ezeokwe during their invasion of the Zinai community.
The church has described this event as a painful loss and is calling on the Christian community and the general public to keep the bereaved family and the Diocese in their prayers. In their statement, they specifically requested prayers for the immediate family, Zinai Church, Cathedral Archdeaconry, and the entire Diocese of Yola during this tragic period.
This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the region and underscores the need for enhanced measures to protect communities and religious leaders from such violent acts.
