Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest and pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has been killed by suspected bandits.
The tragic incident was confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan in a statement released Wednesday by its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet. According to the statement, Father Okechukwu was abducted from his residence, and subsequently murdered.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu. He was a dedicated servant of God and a beloved member of our community,” stated Rev. Fr. Shanet.
The killing has sent shockwaves through the local community and the wider Catholic population in Nigeria. The region has been plagued by ongoing security challenges, including banditry and kidnapping, which have increasingly targeted religious figures.
Local authorities have been notified, and investigations are reportedly underway. The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan has called for prayers for the soul of Father Okechukwu and for peace in the region.
This incident adds to the growing concern over the safety of religious leaders in Nigeria, and further highlights the urgent need for increased security measures in vulnerable areas.
