The Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed the tragic killing of Pastor Emmanuel Ezeoikwe by unidentified gunmen. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, April 23, at the pastor's residence in Zina village, Song Local Government Area.
Details of the Attack
According to SP Suleiman Nguroje, the police spokesperson, the assailants invaded the village around 12:30 am and shot the pastor. The attack was reported to the police at approximately 6:30 am. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found the lifeless body of the victim, who was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead by a medical doctor. His remains have been deposited at the hospital morgue for an autopsy.
The police recovered three empty AK-47 shells from the crime scene. The Commissioner of Police, Kabir Hassan, has ordered a discreet investigation and deployed a tactical team to track down the perpetrators. He urged the public to remain calm and provide any useful information that could aid the investigation.
Public Reactions
The killing has sparked reactions on social media. A user named Goodbetterbestafrica noted that Adamawa has historically been peaceful between religious groups, urging that any incident be traced to its source. Funny Immaculate called on the government to take action, suggesting that if activist Very Darkman were still active, he would have raised an alarm. Ofonono Udongwo condemned the attack, highlighting the persistent security challenges in northern Nigeria where clerics and rural communities remain vulnerable. Dr_EM_Platform expressed frustration over the apparent impunity of armed groups, while BIG_MARV called for gun licenses and criticized the government.
This incident adds to a series of violent attacks in the region. In a separate event on April 6, gunmen ambushed and killed a 300-level student of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin, in Plateau State. The victim, Badung Sunday Alamba, 29, was shot at the entrance of Dum Village in Bachi District.
The police have assured the public that efforts are underway to apprehend the attackers and bring them to justice.
