‘Painful Loss’ – Top Catholic Archbishop Is Dead; Gov Okpebholo, Obaseki Mourns

The Catholic Archbishop of Benin, Most Rev. Fr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, has died.

He was said to have died in his sleep while on vacation abroad, one month before his retirement.

He would have turned 70 on August 25 which would have also signalled his retirement in line with the Catholic Church’s doctrine.

Akubeze was ordained as a Catholic priest on October 3, 1987, appointed Bishop of Uromi on December 14, 2005 and consecrated on February 25, 2006. He was later appointed Archbishop of Benin City on March 18, 2011 and installed on April 28, 2011

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and former governor of the state, Godwin Obaseki, have mourned the death of the Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze.

Okpebholo, in a condolence message issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, described Akubeze’s death as a painful loss to the Christian community, Edo State and Nigeria.

The governor said the late cleric devoted his life to the service of God and humanity, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, integrity and selfless leadership.

“Archbishop Akubeze was a man of deep faith, wisdom and uncommon humility. He dedicated his life to serving God and uplifting humanity,” Okpebholo said.

“He was a strong moral voice who consistently spoke for justice, peace, unity and the welfare of the poor.”

The governor said Akubeze distinguished himself as a humble shepherd and courageous advocate for justice, peace and good governance.

He noted that the late cleric made significant contributions as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.

Okpebholo extended his condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, priests, religious and lay faithful of the Benin Archdiocese, as well as the family of the late Archbishop.

He assured the Catholic community of the support of the Edo State Government during the period of mourning.

Obaseki Pays Tribute

Obaseki, in his tribute, described Akubeze as an extraordinary shepherd whose life reflected faith, humility and service to humanity.

He said the late Archbishop was a tireless advocate for quality education, social justice, peace, human dignity and the upliftment of the poor.

“As President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, he became one of the nation’s most respected moral voices,” Obaseki said.

“He consistently called for justice, accountable leadership, peaceful coexistence, credible elections, security and respect for the sanctity of human life.”

The former governor said he enjoyed a warm and respectful relationship with Akubeze during his tenure, describing him as a source of wise counsel and a partner in advancing education, healthcare, youth empowerment, peacebuilding and social development.

Obaseki said Akubeze’s passing was a monumental loss to the Catholic Church, Edo State, Nigeria and the global Christian community.

Both leaders prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Archbishop and comfort for the Catholic faithful and all those mourning his death.