U.S. Condemns Killing of Catholic Priest Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna, Calls for Justice
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has strongly condemned the abduction and killing of Catholic Priest, Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu by gunmen in Kaduna State.
The Mission, in a statement described it as a “horrific act of violence.”
The Mission expressed deep sorrow over the brutal incident and extended condolences to family of Reverend Father Okechukwu, the congregation, and the community.
The statement read read in part,
“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”.
The U.S. Mission also urged authorities to ensure swift justice, emphasizing the need to hold the perpetrators accountable.
Father Okechukwu, who served as the Priest of St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira, in Kaura LGA, was reportedly abducted from his residence before being killed. The attack has sparked widespread outrage and renewed demands for stronger security measures to protect religious leaders and communities in the region.
Kaduna State authorities have yet to release details on the circumstances surrounding the killing or any arrests made in connection with the crime. The state has witnessed numerous attacks on clerics in recent years, with armed groups targeting religious leaders and their congregations for ransom or execution.
It was gathered that this is not the first time Father Okechukwu was abducted. In December 2022, he was kidnapped from the Rectory of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fadan Kono, Kauru LGA, and released after three days.
His murder has reignited concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the region, with religious and civil society groups urging the government to take decisive action against the growing threat of violence against clerics and citizens.
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