A parishioner keyboardist and a dancer in church, Douglas Henry, who allegedly masterminded the brutal abduction and murder of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, has been arrested. Father Okechukwu was the parish priest of the church of St Mary Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.
According to Father Jacob Shanet, Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan in a statement on March 6, 2025, Father Okechukwu was kidnapped in his residence in Tachira on March 4, 2025 between 9.15 pm and 9.40 pm. His lifeless body was found on March 5.
Father Shanet stated: “After being taken by his abductors, Fr Sylvester was cruelly killed in the early hours of today, the 5th of March 2025, Ash Wednesday.”
A source noted that the leery surprise was that Henry lived with Father Okechukwu in the same compound but connived with bandits to kidnap the priest so he can get his share of N200,000.
Henry often performs in the church musical group alongside his accomplice, Pate Yau, 33.
The revelation and arrest has raised shockwaves across Kaduna communities and the church.
An anonymous commentator noted: “This shocking revelation raises a haunting question: Can we truly trust those around us, even in sacred spaces?
“Remember, attending church or singing hymns doesn’t guarantee a pure heart. Be cautious, be vigilant, and prioritize your safety! Security consciousness is key, even among those who seem closest to us.
“Let this tragic incident serve as a stark reminder: Ev!l can lurk in the most unexpected places. Stay alert, stay safe, and never take anyone at face value.”
