Father Benjamin Madu, a 54-year-old Nigerian Catholic priest serving in Massachusetts, died by suicide after being directed to return to Nigeria by his diocese ahead of his visa expiration.

The priest, who held an R-1 religious worker visa set to expire on 29 July, faced heightened immigration restrictions under US policies targeting Nigeria as a 'high-risk' country.

His death comes after he expressed deep distress over returning home, suffering a panic attack in June and openly weeping at Mass, stating his heart was shattered at the prospect.Parishioners and colleagues described him as visibly fearful, though he never disclosed the exact reason for his anxiety.The Archdiocese of Boston confirmed his death, with an internal email stating he 'tragically took his own life.

' Immigration lawyers noted the Trump-era policy complicating visa renewals for Nigerian religious workers, leaving Father Madu with limited options.

Bishop Ernest Obodo of the Diocese of Abakaliki ordered his return to avoid overstaying, but the priest's refusal to seek legal aid despite offers from parishioners highlights the emotional toll of the situation.The case underscores the challenges faced by religious workers from Nigeria navigating US immigration policies.