In response to the incident, the Archdiocese of Owerri condoled with the bereaved family and prayed for the happy repose of the dead and the recovery of the injured.
“Meanwhile, the police are investigating the incident and the circumstances surrounding it. We, therefore, call for calm at St Columbus Prish, Amaimo.”
Approached for comments, some of the villagers were reluctant to speak for fear of possible arrest and interrogation by security agents.
Bishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Lucius IwejuruUgorji, described the event as unfortunate.
He stated: “The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri deeply regrets the shooting incident that occurred on New Year’s Eve at the premises of St. Columba’s Catholic Church, Amaimo, which resulted in the death of a young man and left another injured.”
