Catholic Priest Samuel Oyetoro killed in Kogi as police investigate a suspected machete attack that claimed the life of the cleric in Ajaokuta

A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Oyetoro of St. Paul’s Parish, Ayetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has been killed in Ajaokuta, with the state police command launching an investigation into the incident.

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The Catholic Priest Samuel Oyetoro killed case was confirmed by the Kogi State Police Command on Friday after officers discovered the body of the cleric along Church Road, Ajaokuta, on July 29, 2026.

Police spokesperson ASP Oyiza Afusat said officers received information at about 9:30 a.m. about an unidentified man found lifeless by the roadside.

“The incident is confirmed. On 29th July 2026, at about 9:30 a.m., the police received information that the lifeless body of an unidentified male was found by the roadside along Church Road, Ajaokuta,” she said.

According to the command, police operatives who arrived at the scene observed that the deceased had suffered severe machete injuries to the head.

The body was evacuated to the ASCL Hospital, where a medical doctor confirmed the victim dead before it was deposited at the mortuary for an autopsy.

The deceased was later identified as Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi Oyetoro, a priest serving at St. Paul’s Parish, Ayetoro Gbede.

Born in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, Oyetoro was also said to have hailed from Ayetoro in Ijumu Local Government Area, where he served his religious community before his death.

The police said investigations have commenced, with efforts ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible for the killing.

“ The case is currently under investigation, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible. Upon the conclusion of preliminary investigation, the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation,” ASP Afusat added.

The killing has caused sadness among members of the Catholic community and residents across Kogi State, with many awaiting further details from security authorities as investigations continue.

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The incident adds to growing concerns over attacks on religious leaders and civilians in parts of the country, with security agencies facing continued pressure to bring perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.