Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) is deeply saddened by the abduction and murder of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan.
This was contained in a statement by its chairman, Apostle Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, and issued to newsmen.
The statement described the murder as inhumane and a deeply painful loss to Christendom and the nation at large.
“this unfortunate incident is part of a troubling pattern of attacks on clergymen in Southern Kaduna ,as 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?”,the statement querried
The clergy therefore called on Federal and State security apparatus to do something drastic to check this before it completely takes a religious undertone that might undermine the hard earned peace in the state.
“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”,it added
The statement urged all Christians and residents of Southern Kaduna to be vigilant and security-conscious, while reporting any suspicious movements or threats to law enforcement agencies without delay.
“our collective safety depends on our willingness to cooperate and take proactive measures against these evil forces.
On behalf of SKCLA, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, especially to the Lord Bishop, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, the clergy, and the entire Catholic faithful. We stand with you in this moment of grief and pray that God grants you the strength and comfort to bear this tragic loss”,it concluded
The chairman of the association pray that the soul of the departed finds eternal rest, while praying for comfort to the family, the Catholic Church, and all who are affected by the act of violence.
Statement/Teddy Daniel
