Catholic Priest Allegedly Shoots Boy Dead Over Knockouts During New Year Mass in Imo

A Catholic priest in Imo State has been accused of fatally shooting a boy after the child set off knockouts during the New Year Mass on January 1, 2025. The sad incident happened at a church in Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area, and has sparked widespread outrage across social media platforms. Eyewitnesses shared on Facebook that following the boy’s actions, the priest, whose identity has not been confirmed, retrieved a firearm and shot the boy dead.

While the names of the priest and the deceased remain unverified, the event has left the community in shock. Local residents are calling for a full investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Imo State Police Command has acknowledged the incident, with spokesperson Henry Okoye confirming that an investigation is underway. Okoye assured that authorities are working to uncover the details of what led to the tragic outcome. He added that updates would be shared as the investigation progresses.

The incident has triggered mixed reactions online. On Facebook, users expressed disbelief and concern. One user, Malachy Chukwunyereugo, remarked that the priest would likely face prison time, while Lyn Chy questioned the propriety of a priest possessing a firearm. Peace Ijeoma expressed sadness at what she described as religious bigotry, criticizing those defending the priest.

On X, users reacted similarly, with one tweep, Bloc Chief, expressing shock that such an event could happen in Imo State, while another user, Rise above hat, speculated that the priest might have acted out of fear due to past trauma.