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Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a priest in charge of St Mary Catholic Church Tachira, in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu.
The State command, who confirmed the incident through the Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, in a telephone interview on Wednesday, said the Commissioner of Police has given an order for the manhunt of the perpetrators following the mysterious circumstances of the killing.
“The circumstances of his death, there’s a sign of struggle, so the Kaduna State Police Commissioner has given an instant order to unravel those behind the devilish act”, he said.
However, the Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan through the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, who had earlier confirmed the killing of the priest in a statement obtained by PUNCH Online, disclosed that the victim was kidnapped on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at about 9:15 p.m. at his residence but found death on Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
Shanet added that the reason behind the killing is still unknown.
” This untimely and brutal loss has left us heartbroken and devastated. Fr Sylvester was a dedicated servant of God who worked selflessly in the vineyard of the Lord, spreading the message of peace, love, and hope.
“He was always available and accessible to his parishioners. His untimely death has left an indelible void within our diocesan family, and we share in the pain of his passing with his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him.
“Let us come together as one family in prayer for the repose of his soul. We invite all priests, religious and the faithful, to offer Holy Masses, Rosaries, and Prayers for the eternal repose
of Fr. Sylvester, who gave his life in service to God and humanity.
“We wish to call on our youth and members of the Takad community to remain calm and steadfast in prayer, warning that no one should take the law into their hands. The details of the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.” The statement added.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, could not be reached for confirmation as of the time of filing this report.
