Tragedy has struck the Catholic community as the lifeless body of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, who was abducted on March 4, was discovered in Mafan, Atakar Community, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Security sources confirmed that the 44-year-old priest was forcibly taken from his residence at St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira Atakar, around 9:15 p.m. by yet-to-be-identified assailants. His remains, bearing severe signs of violence, were found by a joint security team at approximately 10:15 a.m. on March 5.
His body has been moved to St. Louis Hospital, Zonkwa, for an autopsy as authorities intensify efforts to track down those responsible for his abduction and murder.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice,” a security official stated.
The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan has expressed deep grief over the killing, describing Fr. Okechukwu as a selfless servant of God who dedicated his life to the spiritual and humanitarian needs of the people.
“We urge the faithful and the community to remain calm and allow security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation rather than resorting to any form of retaliation,” the diocese said in an official statement.
Amid rising concerns over insecurity in Kaduna, authorities are calling on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies to curb further attacks.
