Fatai Ya’u, the herdsman
Herdsman Confesses Role in Killing of Abducted Catholic Priest in Kaduna
Fatai Ya’u, a herdsman, has confessed to collaborating with six others in the abduction of Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Tachira Village, Kaduna State.
The priest was kidnapped on March 4, and his body was discovered the following day.
Ya’u, arrested during a raid on prime suspect Pate Yau’s hideout in Warsa-Piti Village, Lere LGA, denied being armed but admitted his involvement in the crime.
He claimed that Douglas, the priest’s neighbor, orchestrated the abduction, pressuring him to participate despite initial hesitation.
According to Ya’u, Douglas repeatedly called him, insisting they carry out the kidnapping.
After seeking advice from another individual, Yahaya, who warned against it, Ya’u eventually joined Douglas and three others.
The group stormed the priest’s home, where one member fired a gunshot, causing the clergyman to flee into his room. Douglas and another masked accomplice then forced him out.
The kidnappers fled with the priest but were pursued by soldiers. After evading capture, Ya’u claimed he left Okechukwu with the others and returned home.
He denied knowing the identities of his accomplices and reiterated that he was unarmed during the operation.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the crime as Ya’u’s confession sheds light on the chilling details of the abduction.
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