Rev. Benjamin Madu, a Nigerian Catholic priest serving in Massachusetts, has died by suicide after being informed that his religious worker visa had expired and he would need to return to Nigeria. Church officials in Massachusetts confirmed his death on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
Priest Served as Hospital Chaplain and Parish Priest
Madu, a priest of the Diocese of Abakaliki in Ebonyi State, had been serving as a hospital chaplain and parish priest in Massachusetts. His visa expiration prompted authorities to ask him to leave the United States, a directive that reportedly led to his decision to take his own life.
Church Officials Confirm Death
The Catholic Church officials in Massachusetts confirmed the death, expressing grief over the loss. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked discussions about the pressures faced by foreign religious workers on temporary visas.
According to Bada Yusuf, Politics and Current Affairs Editor at Legit.ng, Madu's death highlights the emotional and psychological toll that immigration status uncertainties can have on individuals. The priest had been preparing to leave the US when the incident occurred.
Community Mourns Loss
The Nigerian community in the US and the Diocese of Abakaliki have mourned the loss of Rev. Madu, remembering his dedicated service. The incident has also raised concerns about the support systems available to clergy members facing deportation or visa issues.
No official statement has been released by the Diocese of Abakaliki or the Nigerian government regarding the incident. The US immigration authorities have not commented on the case.
