By Emmanuel Ogbodo
The Diocese of Kafanchan has expressed outrage over the abduction and brutal killing of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, who was kidnapped and murdered on March 5, 2025.
In a statement issued by Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi on March 6, the Diocese condemned the rising wave of attacks targeting priests, church workers, and the faithful.
The bishop described Fr. Okechukwu’s murder as an attack on faith, justice, and human dignity, questioning how long religious leaders and places of worship would remain targets of violence.
The statement recalled past killings, including the murder of Catechist Raymond Ya’u in 2021, Rev. Fr. Johnmark Cheitnum in 2022, Seminarian Naaman Stephen Ngofe in 2023, and the abduction of Catechist Istifanus Katunku in 2024, whose fate remains unknown.
The Diocese also highlighted the broader impact of kidnappings in Southern Kaduna, where criminals continue to demand huge ransoms, disrupting communities and worsening economic hardship.
While reaffirming its willingness to collaborate with security agencies, the Diocese questioned the government’s failure to protect citizens and demanded immediate action to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Church urged the public to remain calm and steadfast in prayer, warning against retaliatory violence. It also called on authorities to ensure that those responsible for these crimes face justice.
Bishop Kundi concluded by praying for Fr. Okechukwu’s soul and for peace in the Diocese, emphasizing the need for truth, justice, and righteousness to prevail.
