The United States Mission in Nigeria has expressed deep distress over the brutal killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest serving at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Father Okechukwu was abducted from his residence on the evening of March 4, 2025, and his lifeless body was discovered the following day, coinciding with Ash Wednesday.
In an official statement, the U.S. Mission strongly condemned the senseless act of violence and extended heartfelt condolences to Father Okechukwu’s family, congregation, and the broader community. The Mission emphasized the immeasurable loss suffered and called on Nigerian authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory also expressed profound grief over the incident. CAN’s chairman, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, highlighted the alarming insecurity in the region and urged both state and federal governments to take decisive action against the escalating violence targeting clergy and innocent citizens.
The Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed the incident and initiated a manhunt for the assailants. According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, evidence at the scene indicated signs of a struggle, prompting directives from the Commissioner of Police to apprehend those responsible for the heinous act.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in Kaduna State and across Nigeria to protect citizens and religious leaders from such atrocities.
