Again, bandits kill Kaduna Catholic priest

A Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Kafanchan, Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, has been killed by suspected bandits in the Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Until his murder, Fr. Okechukwu was the priest in charge of St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira, in Kaura LGA.

The Chancellor of Kafanchan Catholic Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, in a statement obtained by The PUNCH, confirmed that Fr. Okechukwu was kidnapped from his residence on March 4, 2025, around 9:15 p.m. and was killed on Ash Wednesday morning, March 5, 2025.

The reason for his murder remains unknown.

“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.”

The statement further called for prayers for the repose of his soul:

“Let us come together as one family in prayer for the repose of his soul. We invite all priests, religious, and the faithful to offer Holy Masses, Rosaries, and Prayers for Fr. Sylvester, who gave his life in service to God and humanity.”

The diocese also urged youths and members of the Takad community to remain calm and not resort to violence.

“We wish to call on our youth and members of the Takad community to remain calm and steadfast in prayer, warning that no one should take the law into their hands. The details of the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.”

Meanwhile, efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, for confirmation were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.