The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan has confirmed the kidnap and murder of the parish priest of St St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu.
Rev Fr Okechukwu, from Ozalla Nkanu in Enugu State, was kidnapped from his residence around 9:15pm on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
A statement signed by the chancellor of the diocese, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, said Rev fr Okechukwu was brutally murdered by his abductors in the early hours of Wednesday, March 5.
He however noted that it’s yet to be determined why the priest was killed.
“This untimely and brutal loss has left us heartbroken and devastated. Fr. Sylvester was a dedicated servant of God, who worked selflessly in the vineyard of the Lord, spreading the message of peace, love and hope,” the statement read.
“He was always available and accessible to his parishioners. 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.
“Let us come together as one family for the repose of his soul. We invite all priests, religious and the faithful, to offer Holy Masses, Rosaries and prayers for the eternal repose of Fr. Sylvester, who gave his life in service of God and humanity.
“We wish to call our youth and members of the Takad community to remain calm and steadfast in prayers. No one should take the law into their hands.
“The details of the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course. May we continue to hold one another in prayer and unity during this dark moment.”
Born December 1980, Rev. Okechukwu was ordained a Catholic priest on 11th February 2021.
