The United States Mission in Nigeria has condemned the killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest who was abducted and later found dead in Kaduna State.
Father Okechukwu, who served as the pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area, was kidnapped on Tuesday.
His tragic death was confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan on Wednesday.
Reacting to the incident, the U.S. Mission expressed deep concern, describing the murder as brutal and senseless.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Friday, the mission extended its condolences to the priest’s family, congregation, and the wider community, acknowledging the profound impact of the loss.
“We are deeply distressed by the horrific killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria,” the statement read.
“This act of violence is condemnable. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, parishioners, and community, who have suffered an irreplaceable loss.”
The U.S. Mission also called on Nigerian authorities to take swift action to bring those responsible to justice.
