Gunmen have killed no fewer than three worshippers during a Christmas vigil mass at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Nkweagu, in Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

It was gathered that the worshippers were during an attack on the church on Sunday night.

Confirming the attack on Monday, December 25, 2023, the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Nworie, said the killing occurred at 11.30 p.m. on Sunday.

Nworie disclosed that the gunmen invaded the church while a priest was celebrating vigil mass service, killed, and injured many others.

The Bishop described the incident as sad and disheartening and prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls.

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He said such killing had never happened in a church in the state.

“This is the first time such an incident is happening in the church and in Ebonyi State in general,” the Bishop said.

The cleric, in his sermon, urged the people of Ebonyi State to align themselves with the significant and teaching of Christmas.

He urged the faithful to pray for unity and progress of the state and the country.

Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Police Command has yet to speak on the killing as of press time.

The Star