JUST-IN: Bandits Kill Catholic Priest In Kaduna

Bandits in the early hours of Wednesday killed Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, the priest of St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira, after his abduction from his home in Tachira in Kaura local government area of Kaduna State.

The Chancellor of Diocese of Kafanchan, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet disclosed this development to newsmen in a statement on Wednesday.

Fr. Shanet explained that late Sylvester Okechukwu was kidnapped from his residence on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

“It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic death of our beloved Priest, Rev Fr Sylvester Okechukwu (Born 11/12/1980 and ordained 11/02/2021), who was the Pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State,” Rev. Fr. Shanet said.

He disclosed that Fr Sylvester was kidnapped from his residence on at approximately 9:15pm on Tuesday.

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“After being taken by his abductors, we regret to inform you that Fr Sylvester was cruelly killed in the early hours of today, the 5th of March 2025, Ash Wednesday. It is yet to be determined why he 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.

“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 in prayer 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 to God and humanity,” the priest said.

He therefore appealed to the youth and members of the Takad community to remain calm and steadfast in prayer, adding, “No one should take the law into their hands.”

Shanet said 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,” he said.