Tragedy in Kaduna: Catholic Priest kidnapped, Killed in Mysterious Circumstances

Sani Wilson Enemona March 5, 2025

The Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed the tragic killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, the parish priest of St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira, in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, revealed in a phone interview on Wednesday that the state’s Commissioner of Police has ordered an immediate manhunt for the culprits behind the gruesome act.

“The circumstances surrounding his death indicate a struggle, and the Commissioner of Police has given a firm directive to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice,” Hassan stated.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan, through its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, also confirmed the priest’s death in a statement obtained by PUNCH Online. According to Shanet, Fr. Okechukwu was abducted from his residence at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. His lifeless body was discovered the following day, on Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

The motive behind the killing remains unclear, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

“This devastating and untimely loss has left us heartbroken,” the statement read. “Fr. Sylvester was a dedicated servant of God, tirelessly spreading peace, love, and hope. He was always available to his parishioners, and his absence has left a deep void in our diocesan family.”

The Archdiocese called on the faithful to remain prayerful, urging priests, religious members, and the entire community to offer Holy Masses, Rosaries, and prayers for the repose of his soul.

Additionally, the Church appealed to the youth and the Takad community to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. Details regarding the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.

Efforts to reach DSP Mansir Hassan for further comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.