Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has mourned the passing of Archbishop Augustine Akubeze, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, describing his demise as a painful loss to the Christian community, Edo and Nigeria.
The archbishop died on Thursday at the age of 69.
This is contained in a condolence message by Dr Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to Okpebholo, in Benin on Friday.
Okpebholo stated that the late archbishop devoted his life to the service of God and humanity, leaving behind an enduring legacy of faith, compassion, integrity and selfless leadership.
He said that Akubeze distinguished himself as a humble shepherd and courageous advocate for justice, peace and good governance throughout his ministry, both as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin and as former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.
“Archbishop Akubeze was a man of deep faith, wisdom and uncommon humility, he dedicated his life to serving God and uplifting humanity.
“He was a strong moral voice, who consistently spoke for justice, peace, unity and the welfare of the poor.
“His passing is a great loss, not only to the Catholic Church but also to Edo and the nation.
“We have lost a respected spiritual father, whose counsel and commitment to truth inspired many within and outside the Church,” the governor said,” he said.
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the priests, religious and lay faithful of the Benin archdiocese, as well as family of the late Archbishop.
He assured the Catholic community of the solidarity and support of the Edo government during the period of mourning.
He urged all Edo people, irrespective of their religious beliefs, to pray for repose of the soul of the departed cleric.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the late Akubeze eternal rest and comfort all those grieving his passing.
Okpebholo further urged them to uphold the enduring values of faith, love, service and integrity that defined his life and ministry.
Also, Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo) expressed grief over the death.
In a condolence message on Friday by his Chief of Staff, Mr Victor Oshioke, Oshiomhole said he received the news of the archbishop’s death with ”shock and sadness”.
According to him, the archbishop lived a life that faithfully reflected his episcopal motto, Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati—That I may bear witness to the Truth.
Oshiomhole described the late cleric as a courageous witness to the gospel, a compassionate shepherd and a humble servant of God.
”The late archbishop’s simplicity, accessibility, gentleness and unwavering commitment to truth and justice earned him the admiration and respect of Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
“I recall that archbishop Akubeze’s elevation to the Benin Archdiocese in 2011 coincided with my tenure as governor of Edo, following his distinguished service as Bishop of Uromi.
“Although, the appointment initially generated resistance, the archbishop remained steadfast, trusting completely in God’s will and maintaining that a servant of God must faithfully answer wherever the Lord calls,” Oshiomhole said
Oshiomhole, while reflecting on their interactions during his years as governor, said he was always impressed by the archbishop’s profound intellect, deep spirituality, pastoral experience and openness to differing opinions.
“His counsel was measured, his convictions were principled, and his life was a testament to selfless service.
”On behalf of my family and the people of Edo North Senatorial District, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy and faithful of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Benin City, and the entire Catholic community,” he said.
He, however, prayed the Almighty God to grant the late archbishop eternal rest, saying that his enduring legacy of truth, faith, humility and dedicated service would continue to inspire future generations.
The archbishop died on July 9, according to a statement signed by the Chancellor of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, Rev. Fr. Michael Oyanoafoh.
