ABUJA, Nigeria — The United States Mission in Nigeria has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest abducted and murdered by suspected bandits in Kaduna State.
Rev. Father Okechukwu, who served at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachiri, Kaura Local Government Area, was kidnapped from his residence on the night of Tuesday, March 4, 2025, and his lifeless body was discovered the following day.
Reacting to the killing, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria issued a statement on Friday, describing the incident as a “brutal and senseless” act of violence.
“The U.S. Mission is distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria. 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 statement read.
Calls for Action
The United States also called on the Nigerian government to bring those responsible to justice, urging authorities to strengthen security efforts to prevent similar attacks on religious leaders and communities.
Father Okechukwu’s abduction and killing highlight the persistent security challenges facing parts of northern Nigeria, where attacks by bandits and armed groups have resulted in frequent kidnappings, killings, and displacement of residents.
Rising Insecurity in Kaduna
Kaduna State has been a hotbed of violent attacks, with religious leaders, security operatives, and civilians frequently targeted by bandits and insurgents.
Despite government assurances of increased security patrols and military operations, communities continue to suffer deadly ambushes and abductions.
Religious groups, civil society organisations, and international bodies have repeatedly called for decisive action to address worsening security threats in the region.
As of press time, Nigerian authorities have yet to announce any arrests or leads in the investigation into Father Okechukwu’s murder.
The Catholic Church and local leaders have demanded swift justice, as well as greater security protections for faith-based communities across the country.
