
Kaduna Violence: Priest Kidnapped and Killed
On March 4, 2025, Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, the pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was abducted from his residence. Tragically, he was found murdered the following day.
The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed the incident, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. The Diocese’s Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, stated that Fr. Okechukwu was kidnapped on March 4, 2025, and his lifeless body was discovered on March 5, 2025.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Kaduna State, where religious leaders and communities have been increasingly targeted by violent groups. Local authorities are being urged to enhance security measures to protect vulnerable populations from such attacks.