Edo State Governor Mourns the Death of Nigeria’s Oldest Catholic Priest, Monsignor Thomas Oleghe
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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extended heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community in the state following the passing of Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria. Oleghe, who was 104 years old, passed away on Sunday morning, November 24, 2024.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo described the late Monsignor Oleghe’s life as an exemplary one, offering invaluable lessons to Nigerians. He praised Oleghe’s humility and selflessness, emphasizing the impact of his long life and ministry on the countless individuals he touched. The Governor further expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased, as well as to the wider Catholic community in Nigeria, particularly the Auchi Diocese, and prayed for the strength to bear the loss.
“Fr. Oleghe hailed from Igiode town in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. His life was one of fulfillment, and while he lived to the remarkable age of 104, we will dearly miss his fatherly guidance and the many lives he touched,” said Governor Okpebholo.
He continued, “On behalf of the government and people of Edo State, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and to the entire Catholic Church community in Nigeria, especially the Auchi Diocese. May God grant his soul eternal rest.”
A statement from the Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Gabriel Dunia, confirmed the death of Monsignor Oleghe at around 2:30 AM on Sunday. He described the priest’s passing as a loss for the Church, acknowledging the long and impactful life Oleghe led. The funeral for the late priest will take place on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Bishop Dunia’s statement read in part: “With gratitude to God for a life well-lived, I hereby inform you of the passing of the Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, who passed on at approximately 2:30 AM on Sunday, November 24, 2024. He was a dedicated servant of the Diocese of Auchi. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
The Catholic community and the people of Edo State will gather to celebrate the life of Monsignor Oleghe, whose legacy of service and faith continues to inspire.
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