Reverend Benjamin Madu, a Catholic priest originally from the Diocese of Abakaliki in Nigeria, passed away in Massachusetts while finalizing his departure from the United States. Father Madu had been serving as a hospital chaplain at Salem Hospital since 2021 and provided ministry to local parishes in Gloucester and Rockport. His death occurred shortly before he was scheduled to return to Nigeria due to the expiration of his religious worker visa.
Father Jim Achadinha, pastor of the local Catholic community, characterized the passing as a profound loss, noting the priest’s dedication and kindness. While official authorities have not released a cause of death, the Essex County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that they do not believe foul play was involved. Reports suggest the priest died by suicide, though an official autopsy is pending. Archbishop Richard Henning offered his condolences to the priest’s family and the parishioners who benefited from his service.
Madu’s visa was set to expire on July 29, and his home diocese requested his return earlier in the month to comply with U.S. immigration laws that require a departure before a visa renewal application can be filed. In a recent farewell message to his congregation, Madu shared his sorrow over the forced separation, stating that while he was heartbroken, he cherished the time he spent ministering to the Cape Ann community and hoped to return in the future. The Diocese of Abakaliki has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
