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A Catholic priest in Nigeria was discovered dead on Ash Wednesday, just one day after being kidnapped from his residence. The Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed that Rev. Sylvester Okechukwu, aged 45, was taken from his home late Tuesday evening around 9:15 p.m.

“It is yet to be determined why he was killed,” Rev. Jacob Shanet, chancellor of the Kafanchan Diocese, said. Currently, no suspects have been apprehended in connection with the crime.

Describing the fallen priest, Shanet stated, “Father Sylvester was a dedicated servant of God who worked selflessly in the vineyard of the Lord, spreading the message of peace, love, and hope.”

This latest incident highlights the severe persecution faced by Christians in Nigeria, which ranks highest globally for Christian kidnappings and killings in 2024, according to Open Doors’ World Watch List.

“This untimely and brutal loss has left us heartbroken and devastated,” Shanet expressed in his statement. He further added, “His untimely death has left an indelible void within our diocesan family, and we share in the pain of his passing with his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him.”

While grieving, Shanet urged against retaliation, stating, “No one should take the law into their hands.” He also called for unity, saying, “May we continue to hold one another in prayer and unity during this dark moment.”

The crisis affecting Catholic clergy in Nigeria continues to worsen, with three priests from last month’s kidnappings still in captivity, though one managed to escape. According to Aid to the Church in Need, 2024 has already seen 14 priests kidnapped, with one fatality and the others eventually freed.

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria responded strongly to the incident. “The U.S. Mission is distressed by the brutal and senseless killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State, Nigeria,” they declared. “We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence.”

The embassy continued, “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, congregation, and community of Father Okechukwu, who have suffered an immeasurable loss. Our thoughts are with them during this time of profound grief. We call on the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

The persecution of Catholics in Nigeria has intensified since 2009, coinciding with Boko Haram’s emergence. The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law reports that Christian casualties in Nigeria have exceeded 52,250 over the past 14 years, according to Global Christian Relief.