The US Mission in Nigeria has expressed support for the Nigerian government’s pursuit of justice in the killing of Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna, who was abducted on March 4, 2025, and found dead the next day.
Okechukwu, a priest at St. Mary Catholic Church in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area, was kidnapped on March 4, 2025, and his body was found the next day, as confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan.
The U.S. mission emphasized the importance of due process and accountability in achieving justice, stressing the need for transparency in legal proceedings and hoping for a fair and timely trial to hold those responsible accountable.
The U.S. mission reaffirmed its commitment to justice, underscoring that upholding the rule of law is essential for addressing violent crimes and providing closure to victims’ families and communities.
“In light of the recent tragic killing of Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna, we welcome the Nigerian government’s interest in pursuing justice and emphasise the critical role of the judicial system in ensuring due process and accountability.
“We hope all legal proceedings will be transparent, bear out the facts, and lead to a fair and swift trial as to the innocence or guilt of the accused.
“Upholding the rule of law is essential to deliver justice for all victims of such violence, including this case, and provide closure for their families and friends,” the statement read.
