The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has issued a strong condemnation of the abduction and brutal murder of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu from the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, labelling it a troubling sign of escalating insecurity and a possible targeted assault on Christian clerics.
In a statement released by its chairman, Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, SKCLA expressed profound sorrow over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the Lord Bishop, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, the clergy, and the entire Catholic community.
“This inhumane act represents not only a devastating loss to the Church but also a worrying indication of the deteriorating security situation in our region,” the statement declared.
SKCLA raised alarm over what seems to be a troubling pattern of violence directed at Christian leaders in Southern Kaduna. The association recalled the abduction and murder of Rev. Fr. John Mark Cheitnum in 2022, the assassination of Pastor Musa Mairiga from ECWA Church, and numerous other incidents involving the kidnapping and killing of church leaders in the area.
“These repeated assaults on men of God raise serious concerns: Is this a deliberate and systematic attack on Christians, particularly priests and pastors? Apostle Kure questioned.
The Christian body has urged security agencies to take decisive action against these violent crimes, warning that continued inaction could allow the situation to escalate and be perceived as having religious motivations.
“They may be criminals, but why is it that church clerics are the only targets? We hope that both federal and state security forces will take significant measures to address this before it undermines the hard-won peace in the state,” the statement further expressed.
SKCLA also encouraged Christians and all residents of Southern Kaduna to remain vigilant and security-conscious, advising them to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
As the community mourns the loss of Rev. Fr. Okechukwu, SKCLA has called on authorities to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for this heinous act are held accountable.
“May God provide comfort to his family, the Catholic Church, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence,” Apostle Kure concluded.
