The Diocese of Kafanchan, Nigeria, is mourning the tragic murder of Father Sylvester Okechukwu, a dedicated diocesan priest who was killed on Ash Wednesday, March 5.
According to the Diocese of Kafanchan, Father Okechukwu was kidnapped from his residence on March 4 at around 9:15 p.m. before being killed by his abductors in the early hours of the following day.
In a statement, Father Jacob Shanet, chancellor of the Diocese of Kafanchan, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Father Sylvester Okechukwu as a dedicated servant of God who worked tirelessly to spread peace, love, and hope.
“His untimely death has left an indelible void within our diocesan family,” Shanet said. "We mourn his passing with his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him."
The diocese has called on the faithful to offer Masses and rosary prayers for Father Okechukwu’s soul and urged the community to remain calm and steadfast in prayer, warning against any form of retaliation.
Nigeria continues to face a rising wave of insecurity, particularly against Christians and clergy members.
On the same day that Father Okechukwu was kidnapped, the Diocese of Auchi issued a prayer appeal for the release of another priest and a seminarian abducted from a parish rectory on March 3.
This incident follows a series of kidnappings targeting Catholic priests in Nigeria:
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• On February 6, an abduction occurred, but Father Cornelius Manzak Damulak managed to escape.
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On Feb. 19, Father Moses Gyang Jah was kidnapped along with his niece and parish council chairman. The chairman was killed, while the others remain missing.
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Abducted on February 22, Father Matthew David Dutsemi and Father Abraham Saummam remain in captivity.
Since 2009, Nigeria has faced increasing threats from insurgent groups, with many regions experiencing kidnappings, killings, and persecution of Christians.
According to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) International, 13 priests were kidnapped in Nigeria in 2024, with one murdered.
ACN has joined Nigerian Catholic leaders in calling for prayers for the repose of Father Okechukwu’s soul and urging the government to take stronger action to improve security and protect religious communities.
Details of Father Okechukwu’s funeral arrangements will be announced soon. Meanwhile, the faithful are urged to remain united in prayer during this difficult time. - with input from ACI Africa
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