The Catholic community is in mourning following the tragic and untimely death of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, who was abducted from his residence on the night of March 4, 2025, and later killed by his captors. His passing has sent shockwaves through the faithful, especially in St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachirs, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where he served as a devoted pastor.
The Curia has officially confirmed his death in a statement signed by the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shaner, PhD. The full statement reads as follow:
From: The Curia
To: Vicars Forane, Priests, Religious, Lay Faithful, and all Women and Men of Goodwill
Subject: Death of Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu
Date: Wednesday, 5th March 2015
It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic death of our beloved Priest, Rev Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu (Born 11/12/1980 and ordained 11/02/2021), who was the Pastor of St Mary Catholic Church Tachirs, Kaurs Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Fr. Sylvester was kidnapped from his residence on the evening of 4th March 2025 at approximately 9:15 PM WAT.
After being taken by his abductors, we regret to inform you that Fr. Sylvester was cruelly killed in the early hours of today, the 5th of March 2015, Ash Wednesday. It is yet to be determined why he was killed.
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 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. No one should take the law into their hands.
The details of the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course. May we continue to hold one another prayer and unity during this dark moment
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