Archbishop Obiora Akubieze
From our Bureau Chief, Benin
Edo State Commissioner for.Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah has joined millions of Nigerians and Catholic faithful across the world, in the mourning of the passing of the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubueze,.
Hon. Mrs. Abdallah described his death as a monumental loss to the Catholic Church, Edo State and the nation.
In a statement issued on Friday, 10 July, 2026, and made available to journalists in Benin, by the director of media in the ministry, Daisy Osunde, the Commissioner said the late Archbishop lived an exemplary life of faith, humility, compassion and selfless service to God and humanity.
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She noted, that throughout his episcopal ministry, Archbishop Akubueze remained a beacon of hope, a courageous advocate for justice, peace and good governance, adding; that he was a devoted shepherd whose unwavering commitment to the Gospel positively impacted countless lives.
Hon. Mrs. Abdallah, who is also a Catholic, said she received the news of the Archbishop’s passing with a heavy heart.
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He was not only a spiritual father but also a leader whose wisdom, exemplary leadership and pastoral care inspired many faithful to deepen their relationship with God, and remain steadfast in service to humanity, She stated.
Noting further, that the late Archbishop’s life was a testament to sacrificial love, integrity and unwavering devotion to God’s mission.
Archbishop Akubueze’s commitment to protecting the dignity of every human person, particularly women, children and other vulnerable members of society, as well as his advocacy for strong family values, aligns closely with the mandate of the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the Commissioner pointed out.
She extended her heartfelt condolences to the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the immediate family of the late Archbishop and all those grieving his demise.
Hon. Mrs. Abdallah prayed that Almighty God, whom Archbishop Akubueze served faithfully throughout his priestly and episcopal ministry, would grant him eternal rest and comfort the Church during this period of mourning.
While acknowledging the pain of his passing, she expressed hope in Christ’s promise of eternal life and prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the late Archbishop and all the faithful departed.
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