Rev. Benjamin Okwy Madu, a Nigerian Catholic priest serving in the United States, has died by suicide after reportedly expressing fears about returning to Nigeria.
The 54-year-old priest was found dead on July 2 at his residence in Lynnfield, Massachusetts, where he had been serving as a hospital chaplain and parish priest since 2021.
According to reports, Madu’s religious worker visa was due to expire on July 29, and the Diocese of Abakaliki had instructed him to return to Nigeria ahead of a new assignment scheduled for August 4. He had, however, repeatedly told parishioners that he did not want to return, saying the decision was beyond his control.
Days before his death, the priest reportedly suffered a panic attack while driving to celebrate Mass and was treated at a hospital.
The Archdiocese of Boston later confirmed his death, while authorities in Massachusetts said there was no indication of foul play and that investigations were ongoing.
The US Nigeria Civil Society Coalition said Madu had experienced severe emotional distress over the prospect of returning to Nigeria, citing ongoing security concerns involving Catholic clergy.
Born on May 15, 1972, Madu was ordained at St. Theresa Cathedral in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, and would have celebrated 25 years in the priesthood on July 7, just five days after his death.
