BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed profound grief over the death of the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, describing his passing as a monumental loss to the Catholic Church, Edo State and Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the governor said the late Archbishop lived a life dedicated to the service of God and humanity, leaving behind a lasting legacy of faith, compassion, integrity and selfless leadership.
Okpebholo noted that Archbishop Akubeze distinguished himself as a humble shepherd and fearless advocate for justice, peace and good governance throughout his ministry, both as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
According to the governor, the late cleric was “a man of deep faith, wisdom and uncommon humility” who consistently championed justice, peace, national unity and the welfare of the less privileged.
“His passing is a great loss not only to the Catholic Church but also to Edo State and the nation. We have lost a respected spiritual father whose counsel and commitment to truth inspired many within and outside the Church,” the statement quoted the governor as saying.
Governor Okpebholo extended his condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the priests, religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, as well as the family of the deceased Archbishop.
He assured the Catholic community of the Edo State Government’s solidarity during the period of mourning and urged residents of the state, regardless of their religious affiliations, to pray for the peaceful repose of the late cleric.
The governor also prayed that God would grant Archbishop Akubeze eternal rest and comfort all those affected by his passing, while encouraging Nigerians to uphold the values of faith, love, service and integrity that defined his life and ministry.
