Nigerian Priest Father Ben Dies by Suicide Weeks Before US Visa Expiry and Return to Nigeria

The Catholic community in Massachusetts is mourning the death of Rev. Benjamin Okwy Madu, a Nigerian-born priest affectionately known as Father Ben, who died by suicide just weeks before his United States religious worker visa was set to expire.

Madu, 54, who served as a chaplain at Salem Hospital and ministered to Catholic communities in Gloucester and Rockport since 2021, was remembered by parishioners as a humble, joyful and compassionate priest whose ministry touched countless lives.

According to church officials and reports from people familiar with the situation, the priest’s death occurred on July 2, 2026, as he faced the prospect of leaving the United States following the expiration of his R-1 religious worker visa.

His visa was expected to expire on July 29, and efforts to secure an extension reportedly did not provide a clear path for him to remain in the country.

Madu had been preparing to return to Nigeria after being instructed by his home Diocese of Abakaliki, but concerns about the move reportedly caused him deep emotional distress.

Days before his death, Father Ben had delivered an emotional farewell message to members of his congregation, telling worshippers at St. Joachim Church in Rockport that he might not see them again.

In a letter titled “Goodbye from My Heart,” published in a parish newsletter, he expressed his sadness about leaving the community he had grown to love.

The priest wrote that returning home was not his personal choice but was due to circumstances beyond his control. He described the Massachusetts community as a family and reflected on the support, friendship and acceptance he received during his years of service.

Madu reportedly struggled with the possibility of returning to Nigeria amid concerns over security challenges affecting parts of the country, including reports of attacks, kidnappings and threats against religious leaders.

Parishioners said the priest had experienced increasing emotional pressure in the weeks before his death. They recalled that he suffered a severe panic attack while travelling to church and later sought medical treatment after he was unable to continue his duties.

The Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport described his death as a “devastating loss,” with church leaders offering prayers and support to his family and the communities he served.

Rev. James M. Achadinha, pastor of the Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport, expressed grief over the loss and invited parishioners to honour the late priest’s memory during a memorial Mass.

Archbishop Richard G. Henning of the Archdiocese of Boston also extended condolences to Madu’s family in Nigeria and those who were impacted by his ministry.

Authorities confirmed that no foul play was suspected. Madu was found at his residence in Lynnfield, Massachusetts.

During his time in the United States, Father Ben became known for his heartfelt sermons, warm personality and commitment to helping others. At Salem Hospital, colleagues remembered him as a caring chaplain who provided comfort and spiritual support to patients and families during difficult moments.

Parishioners described him as a priest who brought energy and hope to communities facing a shortage of clergy members.

His death has also raised broader questions about the challenges faced by foreign priests serving in the United States, particularly those whose ability to remain depends on religious worker visas.

Advocates have highlighted how immigration delays, visa restrictions and uncertainty can create significant emotional pressure for foreign clergy members who build strong relationships with their communities but later face the possibility of leaving.

The tragedy has renewed discussions about the need for stronger mental health support systems for religious leaders dealing with personal, professional and immigration-related challenges.

Father Ben’s death has left a painful void among Catholics in Massachusetts and among those who knew him in Nigeria. He is remembered as a priest who dedicated his life to faith, service and bringing comfort to people in times of need.