Edo Governor, Oshiomhole Mourn Death of Archbishop Akubeze at 69

(Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze. Photo by Vangurd News)

Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State, and Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, a senator, have participated in the grief of Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, the Catholic Archbishop of Benin.

According to reports, the clergyman passed away just one month before turning seventy while on vacation overseas.

Dr. Patrick Ebojele, Okpebholo’s chief press secretary, released a statement expressing the governor’s grief at the death and characterizing it as a devastating loss for Nigeria, Edo State, and the Christian community.

Throughout his career, the governor said, Archbishop Akubeze distinguished himself as a modest shepherd and a brave supporter of justice, peace, and good government.

“Archbishop Akubeze was a man of extraordinary humility, intelligence, and strong faith. His life was devoted to elevating people and serving God.

He was a powerful moral voice who always advocated for justice, harmony, peace, and the well-being of the underprivileged.

“The nation, Edo State, and the Catholic Church are all very saddened by his demise.

The governor declared, “We have lost a revered spiritual father whose guidance and dedication to truth inspired many within and outside the Church.”

He encouraged all Edo residents, regardless of their religious views, to pray for the deceased cleric’s peaceful rest and reassured the Catholic community of the Edo State Government’s support and solidarity during this time of grief.

Oshiomhole, for his part, characterized the late cleric as a brave witness to the Gospel, a kind shepherd, and a modest servant of God whose simplicity, approachability, gentleness, and unwavering dedication to truth and justice won him the respect and admiration of both Catholics and non-Catholics.

Archbishop Akubeze lived a life that faithfully reflected his episcopal motto, Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati “That I may bear witness to the Truth.”

Oshiomhole expressed his “profound shock and heartfelt sadness” upon learning of the Archbishop’s death at the age of 69 in a condolence statement issued by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Victor Oshioke.

When Oshiomhole thought back on their encounters during his time as governor, he said he was often struck by the Archbishop’s keen intellect, profound spirituality, wealth of pastoral experience, receptivity to many viewpoints, and unshakable faith in God’s providence.

The senator said, “His life was a testament to selfless service, his counsel was measured, and his convictions were principled.”