 in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has strongly condemned){kind=link}
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has strongly condemned the abduction and killing of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, a priest at St. Mary Catholic Church, Tachira, Kaura LGA, Kaduna State.
In a statement issued on Friday, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, chairman of Northern CAN, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a devastating loss not only for the Church but for society as a whole.
Fr. Okechukwu was reportedly kidnapped from his residence on March 4, 2025, and murdered the following day—Ash Wednesday—by unidentified assailants.
CAN extend heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Archdiocese of Kaduna, the Diocese of Kafanchan, the late priest’s family, and the Christian community mourning his tragic demise.
The organization emphasized that his death underscores the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North, where religious leaders and civilians are frequently targeted by criminals operating with impunity.
Decrying the persistent attacks on churches and innocent citizens, CAN called on the Kaduna State Government, the Federal Government, and security agencies to take decisive steps in curbing banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
The statement stressed that the lives of innocent Nigerians, especially those serving God and humanity, must not continue to be sacrificed needlessly.
While acknowledging the efforts of security forces in tackling criminal elements, CAN urged them to intensify their operations to completely dismantle these threats.
The group also advised authorities to adopt proactive security measures rather than merely reacting after lives have been lost.
Emphasizing the collective responsibility of ensuring security, CAN encouraged communities to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities promptly, and work alongside security agencies to enhance safety.
Despite the grief, the Christian body urged believers, particularly in Kaduna and Northern Nigeria, to stay steadfast in their faith and resist the urge for retaliation.
“As we mourn, let us remember Christ’s teachings and respond with love, prayer, and trust in divine justice,” the statement read.
CAN also called on Christians to pray for the repose of Fr. Okechukwu’s soul and God’s comfort upon his family, his diocese, and all those affected by his untimely death.
Additionally, the association urged the government to take swift action to prevent further bloodshed and ensure that no Nigerian suffers a similar fate.