A Catholic missionary priest based in The Gambia, Rev Fr Kelvin Ugwu, has criticised the muted response in Nigeria to the killing of Rev Fr Matthew Eya of the Nsukka Diocese.
DAILY POST reported that Eya was shot dead on his way to his parish on September 19.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Fr Ugwu contrasted the reactions to the shooting of American conservative commentator Charlie Kirk on September 10 with the response to Fr Eya’s murder.
Ugwu said: “Charlie Kirk was shot on the 10th of September 2025.
“The president of America, hate him or like him, made a speech immediately. The speech was straightforward and clear on what would be done. Two days later, on the 12th of September, the shooter was caught and apprehended.
“On this other side of the globe, we made posts. We analysed everything. Some expressed their love for Charlie. Some expressed their reservations. But the bottom line is that we all got talking about Charlie Kirk.
“Fast forward to September 19th, that was when Fr. Matthew Eya of Nsukka diocese was shot on his way to his parish.
“I know their personalities are different, but you can evaluate the reactions from all quarters, compare and contrast and you may get the point I am about to make.
“It is five days now since he was shot and we are already moving on like nothing happened. How many places have you seen the news online? What has the government of Nigeria said? Is the president even aware of the shooting?”
The cleric questioned the lack of further updates on the investigation.
Fr Ugwu continued: “Ok, let’s leave the president, what about the Enugu state government?
“Yeah, as usual, the Enugu state government condemned it in the strongest terms. They placed a 10 million naira reward for anyone who can provide information that will lead to the arrest of the shooter. The message came from the information minister. I don’t know if the governor has said anything since then. Give us an update if you have any.
“Also, three days ago, I read that the Enugu state police announced that they arrested 38 persons in connection with the shooting. These 38 people, according to them, are under screening to ascertain the killer. It is day three now. Does anyone have updates on whether the screening has been finalised or if it is still ongoing?”
Nigerians talking about Charlie Kirk but silent on murdered Enugu Catholic priest – Fr Kelvin