Buhari orders manhunt for killers of Rev Father Paul Offu

Chidi Samuel|

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep shock and dismay over the killing of Rev Father Paul Offu, the Priest of St. James Greater Parish Catholic Church, Ugbawka in Enugu State.

The President, who has ordered a thorough manhunt and prosecution of his killers, also called on all religious leaders to pray for peace, healing, and security of the country.

In a statement on Saturday by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu, the President expressed deep shock and dismay over the killing of the Rev Father and directed the law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in their investigations and bring the perpetrators of the “horrific crime’’ to book.

The President was quoted to have said, “The entire nation is shaken by the horrible assassination of this priest. The administration will continue to guarantee the freedom of religion and protect places of worship as well as the lives of citizens wherever they live.”

The President condoled with the Catholic Church; the government and people of Enugu State; as well as the family of the clergyman and members of the parish and all Christians.

He gave assurance that the fight against “lawlessness and recklessness” would be intensified as security of lives and property continues to top his priorities.

Rev Father Paul Offu was killed on Thursday along the Agwu sector of the Enugu-Port Harcourt express by men suspected to be Fulani herdsmen.