Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders condemn killing of Catholic priest

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Ahmad A. Usman, Kafanchan

The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has condemned the abduction and brutal killing of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, describing it as a disturbing reflection of the worsening security situation in the region.

In a statement issued by its chairman, Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, SKCLA expressed deep sorrow over the murder of the priest and extended condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, particularly the Bishop, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, the clergy, and the entire Catholic faithful.

“This inhumane act is not only a painful loss to the Church but also a disturbing indication of the worsening insecurity in our land,” the statement read.

Apostle Kure noted that the killing of Rev. Fr. Okechukwu follows a disturbing pattern of attacks on clergymen in Southern Kaduna. He recalled similar incidents, including the 2022 abduction and killing of Rev. Fr. John Mark Cheitnum, the assassination of Pastor Musa Mairiga of ECWA Church, and several other cases of kidnappings and killings of Christian leaders.

“These repeated assaults on men of God raise serious concerns: Is this a deliberate and systematic attack on Christians, particularly priests and pastors?” Kure questioned.

The SKCLA chairman urged security agencies to take urgent action, warning that the situation could escalate into a religious crisis if not addressed.

“We hope that both Federal and State security apparatus will do something drastic to check this before it begins to carry a religious undertone that might undermine the hard-earned peace in the state. They may be criminals, but why are church clerics the only targets?” he queried.

The association called on the government to ensure justice for the slain priest and to restore public confidence in security institutions. It also urged residents of Southern Kaduna to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.

“As we mourn Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, we pray that his soul finds eternal rest, and we call on authorities to ensure that justice is served. May God comfort his family, the Catholic Church, and all who are affected by this senseless act of violence,” the statement concluded.

The killing of Rev. Fr. Okechukwu is the latest in a series of violent attacks targeting religious leaders in Southern Kaduna, a region that has experienced persistent security challenges in recent years.