A Diocese United in Sorrow: Nsukka Priests Make Solemn Pilgrimage to Site of Fr. Matthew Eya's Killing


-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

In a poignant display of grief and spiritual solidarity, the entire presbyterium of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, Nigeria, undertook a solemn pilgrimage to the exact spot where their fellow priest, Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya, was brutally murdered. 

The priests, led by the Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Amuluche Greg Nnamani, walked nearly an hour, praying the rosary as they made their way to the site in Akwari.

Upon their arrival, a crowd of grieving faithful—men, women, and children—was already waiting, many breaking down in tears at the sight of their shepherds. "We are here to plead with God, to tell Him how we feel," the Vicar General said, opening a powerful Eucharistic celebration.

During the homily, Rev. Fr. Vitus Ugwu delivered a heartfelt message that acknowledged the deep pain of the community, which has seen seven priests die in a single year. 

He spoke of Fr. Matthew's untimely end, noting that the young priest, "full of dreams for God's people," was ambushed and shot on his way back from a diocesan errand. "We have been served a cup full of tears," he lamented.

Yet, Fr. Vitus urged the faithful to hold on to hope. He reminded them of the sanctity of a priest's life, quoting scripture: "Touch not my anointed." He also addressed a deeper crisis: the disrespect and public cynicism often aimed at the priesthood. The killing of a priest, he said, "begins when we caricature the priesthood online."

In a powerful moment, the homilist spoke of forgiveness as the "strongest weapon" of Christians, while also calling on the government to ensure justice is served. Addressing the perpetrators directly, he stated that while the Church would forgive them, they should not "silence your humanity."

The procession and Mass concluded with a final blessing, and the priests began their silent return journey.

 As the diocese mourns the death of Fr. Matthew Eya, and another priest, Fr. John Igwebueze, who also died tragically, their collective pilgrimage served as a testament to their unwavering faith and resilience.

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