The Catholic Diocese of Warri has announced the death of its Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who passed on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
The revered cleric, described as a father, shepherd and man of deep prayer, was called home to the Lord after a lifetime of devoted service to God and humanity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, said the diocese received the news of Bishop Afareha’s passing “with profound sorrow, yet with a firm hope in the resurrection.”
Bishop Afareha was ordained a Catholic priest on December 30, 1973, and was consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997. Throughout his priestly and episcopal ministry, he was widely known for his obedience to the will of God, pastoral simplicity and enduring commitment to the spiritual growth of the faithful.
“Bishop Afareha lived his life in faith and obedience to the will of God, impacting the lives of many along the way,” the statement read.
Bishop Ewherido, “Even in retirement, he remained a man of prayer and a cherished father to us all.”
The diocese commended his soul to the infinite mercy of God, praying that he may be granted eternal rest and welcomed into the joy of heaven.
“Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, to whom he was deeply devoted, may he rejoice in the presence of the Lord together with the saints and angels,” Ewherido said, while also praying for divine comfort for all who mourn the late bishop.
As part of mourning activities, the Bishop of Warri directed that Masses be offered for the repose of Bishop Afareha’s soul in all parishes and chaplaincies from now until the Month’s Mind Mass.
Funeral arrangements, the diocese said, will be communicated in due course.
