A Nigerian Catholic priest serving in the United States has died after his visa expired, with church authorities confirming his death and local law enforcement ruling out foul play following an investigation.
Reverend Father Benjamin Okwy Madu, popularly known as Father Ben, was a priest of the Diocese of Abakaliki in Nigeria who had been serving as a hospital chaplain and parish priest in the North Shore area of Massachusetts since 2021 under an R-1 religious worker visa.
According to the Boston Archdiocese, Father Ben died on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Archbishop Richard G. Henning informed fellow priests of his passing, expressing sadness over the loss of a member of the clergy who had become well known and respected within the local Catholic community.
Authorities, including local police and the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, investigated the circumstances surrounding his death and stated that there was no indication of foul play.
Before his death, Father Ben had reportedly written a farewell message to his parishioners in which he reflected on the end of his ministry in the United States following the expiration of his visa.
In the message, he said it was not his wish to return to Nigeria at that time but acknowledged that circumstances beyond his control meant his stay in the United States had come to an end.
He also expressed gratitude for the welcome and kindness he had received from the Cape Ann and North Shore communities, describing them as a “home away from home.”
Media reports indicated that Father Ben had also shared concerns about returning to Nigeria, where Catholic clergy have in recent years faced significant security challenges, including kidnappings and attacks in some parts of the country.
Those reports have drawn attention to the difficult conditions under which some religious leaders carry out their ministry.
His death has prompted an outpouring of grief among parishioners, fellow priests and members of the wider Catholic community, many of whom remembered him for his pastoral work, compassion and dedication to serving both parishioners and hospital patients.
However, the reasons behind an individual’s death are often complex, and it would not be possible to conclude from available information that any single factor alone caused this tragedy.
The Catholic Church and the communities Father Ben served continue to mourn his passing while remembering his years of ministry and service.
