The Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, one of the priests of the Kafanchan Catholic Archdiocese, was killed after being abducted by suspected bandits on Tuesday.
In the Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Reverend Father Okechukwu was reportedly kidnapped by suspected bandits at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday.
On Wednesday morning, however, it was confirmed that the pastor was dead.
The Chancellor of the Kafanchan Catholic Archdiocese, Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, confirmed the tragic event in a statement.
The priest in charge of St. Mary Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area, was Okechukwu till his murder.
Although it is unknown why he was killed, Shanet said the deceased priest was a devoted guy who loved God.
He bemoaned his loss to his loved ones, the Catholic Church, and everyone he knew.
“We are heartbroken and grieved by this sudden and cruel loss. Fr. Sylvester was a selfless worker in the Lord’s vineyard, promoting peace, love, and hope as a devoted servant of God.
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“He was constantly available to his parishioners.” We share the sorrow of his departure with his family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him. His sudden death has left an irreversible hole in our diocesan family.
As a single family, let’s join together in prayer for his soul’s rest. All priests, religious and nonreligious, are invited to celebrate Holy Masses, recite Rosaries, and offer prayers for Fr. Sylvester’s eternal rest, as he sacrificed his life for the sake of both God and humanity.
As a reminder that no one should take the law into their own hands, we would like to encourage our young people and the Takad community to pray calmly and firmly. The message stated that the specifics of the funeral plans would be shared when the time came.
