By SUNTV Global Channel News Desk
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
A Nigerian Catholic priest, Reverend Benjamin Okwy Madu, has died in the United States in what authorities are investigating as an apparent suicide, days before he was scheduled to return to Nigeria following the completion of his religious assignment.
Father Madu, 54, died on July 2 at his residence in Lynnfield, Massachusetts, according to the Archdiocese of Boston, where he had served as a hospital chaplain and parish priest since 2021.
His religious worker visa was due to expire on July 29, and he had been instructed by the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki to return to Nigeria for a new pastoral assignment scheduled to begin on August 4.
Reports indicate that Father Madu had expressed concerns about returning to Nigeria, citing the country’s security challenges and the increasing attacks on Catholic clergy in recent years. In a farewell message to parishioners, he said his departure from the United States was not by personal choice but was the result of circumstances beyond his control.
According to media reports, Father Madu experienced a panic attack while driving to celebrate Mass just days before his death and was treated at a hospital emergency department.
The Archdiocese of Boston confirmed his death, while an internal communication from Archbishop Richard Henning to fellow priests reportedly described the incident as a suicide. However, the Archdiocese’s public statement did not specify the cause of death.
The Essex County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that the Massachusetts State Police are investigating the incident. Authorities said there is no indication of foul play.
The U.S.-Nigeria Civil Society Coalition expressed sadness over the priest’s death, alleging that anxiety over returning to Nigeria and the inability to extend his U.S. visa may have contributed to his emotional distress. The organisation also highlighted ongoing security concerns facing Catholic priests in parts of Nigeria.
Born on May 15, 1972, Father Benjamin Okwy Madu was ordained at St. Theresa Cathedral in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. He would have celebrated the 25th anniversary of his priestly ordination on July 7, just five days after his death.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the mental health of religious workers, immigration-related challenges and the security situation confronting clergy serving in parts of Nigeria.
