Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has condoled with the Catholic Diocese of Warri over the death of the Episcopal Vicar of the Ughelli Pastoral Region and Parish Priest of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ughelli, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Mario Ozele.
Ozele, a popular charismatic preacher who hailed from Oghior town in Udu, Delta State, passed on Wednesday.
Dafinone, in a condolence message, described the death of the 60-year-old priest as a painful loss to the Catholic Diocese of Warri, his parishioners and the people of Delta State who benefited from his ministry and counsel.
The senator said Ozele devoted his life to the service of God, the Church and humanity, noting that his pastoral leadership and commitment to the spiritual and social wellbeing of his flock touched many lives.
He said the late priest’s absence would be deeply felt by the Catholic faithful, his fellow priests and the wider community.
Dafinone extended his condolences to the Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, the clergy, religious leaders, parishioners and the entire Catholic community over the loss.
He also commiserated with the family of Fr. Ozele, his friends, colleagues and all those mourning his death.
The senator urged the Catholic faithful and other mourners to draw strength from the life of dedicated service led by the deceased and the positive impact he made during his priestly ministry.
He prayed Almighty God to grant Fr. Ozele eternal rest and give his family, the Catholic Diocese of Warri, parishioners, colleagues and friends the strength to bear the loss.
Dafinone said the legacy of the late priest would continue to inspire faith, service and compassion among those whose lives he touched.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen,” he prayed.
