A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Enyinnaya, of St. Columbus Catholic Church in Amaimo, Imo State, has been arrested by the police for allegedly shooting and killing a boy who threw a firework inside the church during the New Year’s Eve service.
The incident occurred after the priest warned a group of boys not to throw fireworks, locally known as knockouts or bangers, on church grounds. Despite the warning, one boy ignored the priest and threw the firework inside the church. Enraged by the disobedience, Fr. Enyinnaya reportedly retrieved his revolver, fired into the air, but tragically shot the boy in the process. Other boys present at the scene also sustained injuries.
An anonymous source revealed that the priest intended to scare the boys by firing a warning shot. However, the incident was a result of an accidental discharge when the priest, unaware that one of the barrels of his double-barrelled gun was still loaded, lowered his hand after firing the initial shot. The boy was struck by the second shot and died immediately, while the others were rushed to a nearby hospital.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye confirmed that an investigation had begun into the incident, and the priest has been arrested for questioning. Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death and injuries.
The community has been left in shock over the tragic event, which occurred during what was meant to be a joyous celebration of the New Year.