U.S. condemns killing of Catholic priest in Kaduna, calls for justice

The United States Mission in Nigeria has strongly condemned the brutal killing of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest in Kaduna State, by suspected bandits.

The priest was abducted from his residence on Tuesday night and tragically killed the following day.

Rev. Fr. Okechukwu, who was attached to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachiri, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was reportedly taken by armed assailants who stormed his residence under the cover of darkness.

His murder has sparked outrage and grief among the Christian community and the public at large.

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria expressed deep sorrow over the killing, describing it as a senseless act of violence.

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“The U.S. Mission is distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria,” the statement read.

“We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, congregation, and community of Father Okechukwu.”

The tragic incident adds to the growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North, where armed bandits and terrorist groups continue to pose serious threats to lives and properties.

Kaduna State has been one of the epicenters of violent attacks, with religious leaders, school children, and local residents frequently targeted by kidnappers and insurgents.

Local authorities and security agencies have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, with the Kaduna State government reiterating its commitment to tackling banditry and ensuring the safety of residents.

The killing of Rev. Fr. Okechukwu has drawn widespread condemnation from various religious and civil society groups, who have called on the government to step up efforts in securing communities and protecting clerics who are increasingly becoming targets of violence.

The U.S. Mission’s statement underscores the international concern over the state of insecurity in Nigeria and the need for stronger measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.