The parish priest of St. Mary Tachira Catholic church in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Father Okechukwu has been kidnapped and killed.
The unfortunate incident occurred on March 4, 2025, when he was abducted from his residence in Tachira. His lifeless body was later found on March 5, 2025.
The Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed the development in a statement signed by Father Jacob Shanet, Chancellor of the diocese.
“After being taken by his abductors, Fr. Sylvester was cruelly killed in the early hours of today, the 5th of March 2025, Ash Wednesday. It is yet to be determined why he was killed,” the statement partly reads.
The diocese expressed grief over the loss of Father Okechukwu, describing him as a “dedicated servant of God” who “worked selflessly in the vineyard of the Lord, spreading the message of peace, love and hope.
“His untimely death has left an indelible void within our diocesan family, and we share in the pain of his passing with his family, friends and all those who knew and loved him”, the statement added.
The diocese called for prayers for the repose of Father Okechukwu’s soul and urged the Takad community to remain calm and steadfast in prayer.
Meanwhile, the United States Mission in Nigeria has expressed deep distress over the incident.
In a statement on Friday, the mission condemned the brutal act of violence and offered heartfelt condolences to Father Okechukwu’s family, congregation, and community.
The mission described the loss as immeasurable and extended its thoughts to those affected during this difficult time.
Furthermore, the US mission called on Nigerian authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
It said, “The US Mission is distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria.
“We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, congregation, and community of Father Okechukwu, who have suffered an immeasurable loss.
“Our thoughts are with them during this time of profound grief. We call on the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.”