The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the abduction and gruesome murder of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan.
In a statement issued by its chairman, Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, SKCLA described the killing as not only a painful loss to the Church but also a troubling reflection of the escalating insecurity in the region.
“On behalf of SKCLA, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, especially to the Lord Bishop, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, the clergy, and the entire Catholic faithful. We stand with you in this moment of grief and pray that God grants you the strength and comfort to bear this tragic loss,” Kure stated.
He lamented that the killing of Fr. Okechukwu follows a disturbing pattern of attacks on Christian leaders in Southern Kaduna, recalling the abduction and murder of Rev. Fr. John Mark Cheitnum in 2022, the assassination of Pastor Musa Mairiga of ECWA Church, and numerous cases of kidnappings and killings of clergymen.
“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.
He called on both Federal and State security agencies to take decisive action, warning that the continued targeting of Christian clerics could undermine the peace in Kaduna State.
“We strongly challenge the security agencies to rise to the occasion and put an end to this wave of violence. It is unacceptable that those who dedicate their lives to preaching peace and serving humanity continue to be hunted down without consequences for the perpetrators. The government and security forces must take immediate and decisive action to prevent further bloodshed and restore confidence in the safety of our communities,” he added.
SKCLA also urged Christians and residents of Southern Kaduna to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and work collectively to ensure their safety.
“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.