A wave of grief and outrage has swept across Southern Kaduna following the abduction and murder of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Kafanchan. The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has condemned the “inhumane act,” highlighting a disturbing pattern of violence targeting religious leaders in the region. Hobnob News delves into the escalating security crisis and the calls for urgent action.
Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, Chairman of SKCLA, expressed the association’s profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, particularly to Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi, the clergy, and the entire Catholic community. “This inhumane act is not only a painful loss to the Church but also a disturbing indication of the worsening insecurity in our land,” Kure stated. “We stand with you in this moment of grief and pray that God grants you the strength and comfort to bear this tragic loss.”
The killing of Rev. Fr. Okechukwu has reignited fears of a systematic attack on Christian leaders in Southern Kaduna. SKCLA pointed to a series of similar incidents, including the abduction and murder of Rev. Fr. John Mark Cheitnum in 2022, the assassination of Pastor Musa Mairiga of ECWA Church, and numerous kidnappings and killings of Christian leaders across the communities.
“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. “We hope that both Federal and State security apparatus will do something drastic to check this before it begins to carry a religious undertone that might undermine the hard-earned peace in the state. They may be criminal, but why are church clerics the only target?”
SKCLA has issued a strong challenge to security agencies, demanding immediate and decisive action to end the escalating 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 association declared. “The government and security forces must take immediate and decisive action to prevent further bloodshed and restore confidence in the safety of our communities.”
The association also called on Christians and residents of Southern Kaduna to be vigilant and security-conscious, urging them to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies. “Our collective safety depends on our willingness to cooperate and take proactive measures against these evil forces,” SKCLA emphasized.
As the community mourns the loss of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, SKCLA has called for justice and prayed for eternal rest for the slain priest. “May God comfort his family, the Catholic Church, and all who are affected by this senseless act of violence,” the association prayed.
The killing of Rev. Fr. Okechukwu has brought renewed attention to the security challenges facing Southern Kaduna, raising concerns about the safety of religious leaders and the potential for increased interreligious tensions. The incident underscores the urgent need for effective security measures and a concerted effort to address the root causes of violence in the region. Hobnob News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security to Southern Kaduna.
