The Catholic Church in Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of the Bishop Emeritus of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Emmanuel Ogbonnia Okobo.
Bishop Okobo, 84, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Friday, August 29, 2025 in Enugu State.
According to an official statement from the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Bishop Okobo died at the Niger Foundation Hospital in Enugu, after a life dedicated to the service of God, the Church, and humanity.
“With total submission to the will of Almighty God and steadfast hope in the resurrection of the dead,” the Secretariat announced, adding “we commend his soul to the merciful embrace of our Lord.”
Bishop Okobo served the Diocese of Nsukka with distinction, shepherding the faithful with humility, wisdom, and a deep pastoral commitment.
Ordained a bishop in 1991, he led the diocese until his retirement in 2013. During his episcopacy, he was known for championing education, interfaith dialogue, and social development in the region.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the life of the Nigerian Catholic Church, and tributes have begun pouring in from clergy, religious, and lay faithful across the country.
Funeral arrangements and liturgical observances will be announced by the Nsukka Diocese in the coming days.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen,” the statement added.
