U.S. Embassy Condemns Brutal Killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna
posted 7th March 2025
U.S. Embassy Condemns Brutal Killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna
The United States Mission in Nigeria has expressed deep distress over the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State. In a strongly worded statement, the U.S. Mission unequivocally condemned the horrific act of violence and called for justice to be served.
"The U.S. Mission is distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria. We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence," the statement read.
The Mission extended its deepest condolences to the family, congregation, and community of Father Okechukwu, acknowledging the immense loss they have suffered.
"Our thoughts are with them during this time of profound grief," the statement added.
In its message, the U.S. Mission urged Nigerian authorities to take swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice, stressing the importance of accountability in addressing such violent crimes.
The killing of Reverend Father Okechukwu has sparked outrage among the local and international community, with many calling for enhanced security measures to protect citizens, particularly religious leaders who have been targeted in recent years.
The authorities in Kaduna State have yet to release details on any investigations or arrests related to the incident. However, the U.S. Mission’s call for justice echoes growing concerns over security challenges in Nigeria, particularly regarding violence against religious figures and communities.
The killing also reignites debates over U.S. foreign policy regarding religious persecution in Nigeria. Under President Joe Biden’s administration, Nigeria was removed from the list of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) regarding religious persecution, despite reports of increasing violence against Christian communities. This decision has drawn criticism from various quarters, who argue that it undermines efforts to address religiously motivated attacks in the country.
The question now is whether President Donald Trump—would reinstate Nigeria on the CPC list. The Trump administration had previously placed Nigeria on the list (during his first term) in recognition of the dangers faced by Christian communities, a designation that was later reversed under Biden. Observers are watching closely to see if the policy will shift once again in response to ongoing violence.
