BREAKING: Southern Kaduna christian leaders condemn killing of Catholic priest, Fr Sylvester Okechukwu

The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association, SKCLA, has expressed sadness and outrage over the abduction and gruesome murder of Rev Fr Sylvester Okechukwu of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>

Apostle Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association, SKCLA, said in a statement on Friday: “This inhumane act is not only a painful loss to the Church but also a disturbing indication of the worsening insecurity in our land.”

He observed that the unfortunate incident is part of a troubling pattern of attacks on clergymen in Southern Kaduna, saying, “We painfully recall the abduction and brutal killing of Rev. Fr. John Mark Cheitnum in 2022, the assassination of Pastor Musa Mairiga of ECWA Church, and the numerous cases of kidnappings and killings of Christian leaders across our 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 prayed that the federal and state security apparatus would take drastic action to curb this violence before it begins to carry a religious undertone that might undermine the hard-earned peace in the state.

According to him, “We strongly challenge the security agencies to rise to the occasion and put an end to this wave of 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 government and security forces must take immediate and decisive action to prevent further bloodshed and restore confidence in the safety of our communities.”

He urged all Christians and residents of Southern Kaduna to be vigilant, security-conscious, and report any suspicious movements or threats to law enforcement agencies without delay, emphasizing that their collective safety depends on their willingness to cooperate and take proactive measures against these evil forces.

The chairman said, “As we mourn Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu, we pray that his soul finds eternal rest, and we call on authorities to ensure that justice is served. May God comfort his family, the Catholic Church, and all who are affected by this senseless act of violence.”