The United States Mission in Nigeria has condemned the killing of Catholic priest Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, describing it as brutal and senseless.
Father Okechukwu was reportedly abducted from his residence by suspected bandits on the night of March 4, and his body was discovered the following day. He was serving at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachiri, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
“We are distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria. We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, congregation, and community,” the U.S. Mission stated.
Two days after the priest’s death, the Mission urged the Nigerian government to bring those responsible to justice.
“The U.S. Mission is deeply troubled by this tragic loss and calls for swift action to find and hold the perpetrators accountable,” the statement added.
