The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has said it is distressed by the “brutal and senseless” killing of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu in Kaduna State.

Ikechuwku is reported to have been a ducted from his residence by suspected bandits on Tuesday night and his corpse found in Wednesday.

Before his demise, he was serving at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachiri, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Reacting, the U.S. Mission condemned “this horrific act of violence.”

“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 U.S. Mission said in a terse statement.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the Chancellor of the Diocese of Kafachan, Father Jacob Shanet, said the loss has “left us heartbroken and devastated,” Shanet said in the statement.

“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.”