The Catholic Church in Enugu state has confirmed the attack on Reverend Father Ikechukwu Ilo by people suspected to be Fulani herdsmen along Numeh-Nenwe road in Enugu State.
Father Ilo, presiding at St. Patrick Church at Numeh, was reportedly attacked along with Mrs Chika Egbo on Wednesday evening. They were said to have sustained gunshot wounds.
According to the confirmation to Sunday Punch by the Director of Communication, Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Achi, the attack was carried out by Fulani herdsmen.
The Catholic Church spokesman said Fr. Ilo was driving to his parish when suddenly two Fulani herdsmen carrying AK 47 rifles appeared from the bush.
They reportedly tried to stop him, but when they could not, they opened fire on his vehicle. He was said to have been shot in the leg and the other person sustained gunshot wounds.
In his report, according to Father Ilo, “As we drove towards the village, the Fulani killer herdsmen, who spoke both in English and Fulani languages, opened fire, trying to force us to stop. Seeing that we were not ready to cave in to their intimidation, they started raining bullets on our vehicle at close range and in the process, shot me at my ankle and shoulder while the other victim was shot in her leg and waist.”
Father Ilo and his passenger were rushed to Annunciation Specialist Hospital, Emene for treatment after the incident. They are alive.
The police also confirmed the incident, adding that investigations had already begun to ascertain the identity of the suspects and the motive for the attack.
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