Okene Diocese Demands Thorough Investigation, Justice Over Attempted Assassination of Rev. Isaac Bello

 

The Diocese of Okene (Anglican Communion) has called on security agencies to conduct a comprehensive and professional investigation into the attempted assassination of Rev. Isaac Bello, the Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ege, in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Diocese made this known in a statement signed by the Bishop of Okene Diocese, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Onsachi, Ph.D., JP, on Thursday, June 18, 2026, describing the attack on the cleric as disturbing, painful and unacceptable.

According to the statement, the incident occurred while Rev. Bello was preparing to receive fellow priests ahead of a Diocesan Mission Outreach scheduled to hold at Urovo-Ochinomi, a neighbouring community to Ege.

Preliminary reports revealed that the priest was attacked by three suspected assailants close to his residence in Ege with an apparent intention to abduct him. During the attack, he sustained serious injuries, including a deep stab wound on his head and injuries to one of his fingers.

The Diocese explained that Rev. Bello’s cries for help attracted neighbours and other residents who swiftly mobilised and confronted the attackers, disrupting their operation. While two of the suspects escaped, one was apprehended by members of the community.

The statement further disclosed that the arrested suspect was allegedly found wearing a vest containing charms and amulets. It noted that the suspect was taken to Abdulsalam Hospital, Nagazi, for medical attention before being handed over to the Police Station in Ogaminana, where investigations are ongoing.

The Diocese acknowledged reports and videos circulating on social media regarding alleged confessions made by the suspect and claims linking certain individuals to the attack but urged the public to avoid speculation and allow security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation.

“As members of the Body of Christ and adherents of the Anglican Communion, we believe firmly in justice, fairness and due process. We will continue to pursue truth and justice until those behind this heinous act are identified and brought to book,” the statement said.

The Diocese commended the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his commitment to protecting lives and property and his administration’s efforts in tackling insecurity across the state.

It also expressed concern over recurring security challenges affecting Christian communities, especially in Kogi Central, noting that repeated attacks on worshippers and clergy have resulted in loss of lives and trauma among families and congregations.

The Diocese therefore called on security agencies to ensure all those connected with the attempted assassination are identified, arrested and prosecuted according to the law.

It further appealed to Christians, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents of Kogi State to remain vigilant, support security agencies with useful information and continue to pray for lasting peace and security in the state.

The Bishop appreciated members of the public for their prayers, concern and solidarity, expressing confidence that a transparent and truthful investigation would reveal the circumstances surrounding the attack.