In a tragic development that has shaken the Kaduna community, a key suspect has confessed to the kidnapping and subsequent murder of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, the parish priest of St. Mary Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area. The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, cited a pressing need for ₦200,000 to address personal financial issues as the driving force behind the heinous act.
Father Okechukwu was abducted from his residence on the night of March 4, 2025, and his lifeless body was discovered the following morning, bearing signs of violence. The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan expressed profound grief over the loss, describing him as a dedicated servant of God who tirelessly spread messages of peace, love, and hope within the community.
The United States Mission in Nigeria has also condemned the killing, labeling it a "brutal and senseless" act of violence. They extended their deepest condolences to Father Okechukwu's family, congregation, and the broader community, emphasizing the immeasurable loss suffered.
This incident underscores the escalating security challenges in Kaduna State, where abductions and violent crimes have become increasingly prevalent. Local authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the matter, vowing to bring all perpetrators to justice and to implement measures aimed at preventing such tragedies in the future.
The community continues to mourn the untimely loss of Father Okechukwu, remembering him for his unwavering commitment to his faith and his parishioners. His death serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for enhanced security and social interventions to address the root causes of such violent acts.
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