A Catholic priest has reportedly shot and killed a young boy who set off fireworks during a New Year Mass on January 1, 2025, at Amaimo in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.
The incident, which occurred within the church premises, has sparked widespread outrage on social media. The identities of both the priest and the deceased have yet to be confirmed, as reported by PUNCH Online.
According to a Facebook post shared by the handle “For The Love Of Anambra,” eyewitnesses claimed that after the boy set off the fireworks, the priest retrieved a firearm and fatally shot him. The incident has plunged the community into mourning, with residents calling for a thorough investigation.
Imo State Police Command spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirmed awareness of the incident and announced that an investigation had been launched.
“We are conducting a detailed investigation to ascertain the facts of the case. Updates will be provided in due course,” Okoye stated.
Social media users have reacted strongly to the news. On Facebook, Malachy Chukwunyereugo predicted severe legal consequences for the priest, saying, “He will spend the rest of his life in prison.” Another user, Lyn Chy, expressed concern, noting, “The fact that a Reverend Father owns a gun is alarming.”
Peace Ijeoma condemned the defense of the priest by some, writing, “It’s disheartening to see how religious bigots are defending the priest. May we strive to be lovers of God, not of the men of God, in 2025. RIP to the boy.”
On X (formerly Twitter), users also shared their reactions. Bloc Chief wrote, “I thought this only happens in the USA? How can this happen in Imo?” Meanwhile, another user, Rise Above Hat, speculated, “Maybe he has been abducted by gunmen before and thought they were back… only God knows what he was thinking.”
