The Kogi State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the death of Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi, whose body was discovered in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the priest’s lifeless body was found on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

The police spokesperson said officers responded immediately after receiving a report of the incident, recovering the body from the scene before evacuating it to a medical facility. 

A medical doctor later confirmed him dead, after which the remains were deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

The statement identified the deceased as Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi of St. Paul’s Parish, Ayetoro Gbede, in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The Command disclosed that, given the circumstances surrounding the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has ordered that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation.

According to the statement, the investigation is intended to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the priest’s death, identify everyone connected to the incident, and ensure that anyone found responsible is prosecuted.

The police appealed to residents to remain peaceful and avoid spreading unverified information that could interfere with the ongoing investigation.

“The Kogi State Police Command remains fully committed to uncovering the truth behind the incident as investigators are actively pursuing all available leads, and the Command will continue to provide updates,” the statement said.

The Command also assured the family of the late cleric, members of the Catholic Church, and the general public that no effort would be spared in ensuring justice is served.