US Mission condemns killing of Catholic priest in Kaduna

Eric Patrick 

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has condemned the murder of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State.

The lifeless body of the Catholic priest was found in the early hours of Wednesday.

The mission in a statement shared on its X handle on Friday, expressed its displeasure at the brutal killing of the priest.

The deceased was serving at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachiri, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The statement read, "The U.S. Mission is distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria. We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the family, congregation, and community of Father Okechukwu, who have suffered an immeasurable loss.  

"Our thoughts are with them during this time of profound grief. 

"We call on the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice."