A Catholic priest in Kaduna State has been killed after a kidnapping arranged by his own housemate.
Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu lived in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area, before falling victim to the tragic incident.
Douglas Henry, who shared a house with the priest, has confessed to orchestrating the abduction that led to his death.
Security forces arrested Henry and later paraded him for his involvement in the crime that shocked the community.
Henry admitted in a video that he arranged the kidnapping because he desperately needed money.
He claimed that his intention was only to have the kidnappers demand a ransom from the priest.
Henry insisted that he never asked the kidnappers to harm or kill Father Okechukwu.
“When they told me they had killed him, I was shocked and asked why they did that,” he confessed.
The Catholic community and local residents have reacted with anger and sorrow over the brutal killing.
Many described Father Okechukwu as a compassionate man dedicated to serving both God and humanity.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns over rising insecurity in Kaduna and other parts of northern Nigeria.
Banditry and kidnappings have plagued the region, leaving communities vulnerable to constant attacks.
Security operatives have intensified efforts to track down the criminals responsible for the priest’s killing.
Authorities have promised that all those involved in the crime will face the full wrath of the law.
Henry expressed deep regret over his actions but claimed he never expected the situation to end in murder.
“I did it because I was looking for money, not to harm him,” Henry stated in his confession
“When they told me they killed him, I felt terrible because that was not my intention,” he added.
His statement has fueled widespread debates on morality, desperation, and the consequences of crime.
Religious leaders and human rights groups have condemned the killing, calling for justice and improved security measures.
Many Nigerians have expressed outrage over the incident, questioning the government’s ability to curb rising criminal activities.
The Catholic Church has demanded a thorough investigation and swift prosecution of everyone involved in the crime.
Kaduna State has been one of the most affected regions by banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks.
The government has vowed to strengthen security measures to protect both religious leaders and ordinary citizens.
This case has highlighted the dangers of betrayal within trusted circles, raising concerns about trust and personal security.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the worsening security crisis and the urgent need for decisive action.
