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Father Christophe Komla Badjougou, a priest from the Diocese of Yagoua in northern Cameroon, was killed on October 7 while waiting at the gate of a religious congregation's residence in Yaoundé. The priest was in the city to obtain a visa for Italy.
Msgr. Paul Nyaga recounted the incident, stating, "It was about 7 p.m. when he arrived. While waiting for the night watchman to come and open (the gate), he was shot by two men on a bike." Father Badjougou suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and Msgr. Nyaga noted that his attackers took his small bag and phone but left his travel bag behind.
In response to this tragedy, Archbishop Jean Mbarga of Yaoundé expressed "deep sorrow" and extended condolences to Father Badjougou's family and friends. He emphasized that "all human life is sacred and inviolable" and condemned violence and murder.
Bishop Barthélemy Yaouda Hourgo of Yagoua described the attack as being carried out by "malicious, faithless and as yet unidentified individuals." He urged authorities to conduct "a thorough and transparent investigation."
The killing has raised concerns about safety in Cameroon, with Msgr. Nyaga highlighting ongoing violence against Catholic clergy in the country. He remarked on the troubling lack of respect for human life and stated that despite these challenges, their mission must continue: "The proclamation of the Gospel goes along with suffering, with hatred, with persecution."
Ngala Killian Chimtom reports for OSV News from Yaoundé, Cameroon.
