Catholic Archbishop of Benin, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze, Dies

The Catholic Church in Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and former President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze.

The revered cleric's death was announced on Thursday by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in a statement shared on its official Facebook page. The Secretariat did not disclose the cause of his death or indicate where and when he passed away.

Announcing the sad development, the Catholic Secretariat called on Catholics across the country and people of goodwill to offer prayers for the peaceful repose of the late archbishop, describing his passing as a moment of grief for the Church.

The statement read: "In total surrender to God's will and in the sure hope of the Resurrection, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria invites all the faithful and people of goodwill to unite in prayer for the eternal repose of the soul of Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and former President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria."

It added: "May the Lord, in His infinite mercy, grant him everlasting rest. And may his soul, together with the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."

Archbishop Akubeze was one of Nigeria's most respected Catholic leaders, serving the Church for decades in various pastoral and administrative capacities. As Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, he provided spiritual leadership to thousands of Catholics within the Archdiocese while also playing a prominent role in the affairs of the Catholic Church nationwide.

During his tenure as President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria, he was widely known for his consistent advocacy for peace, justice, good governance, national unity, and the protection of human dignity. He frequently addressed issues affecting the country, including insecurity, corruption, poverty, electoral reforms, and the need for responsible leadership.

His leadership earned him respect both within the Catholic Church and across religious and civic communities, where he was regarded as a calm but principled voice on matters of national importance.

Throughout his episcopal ministry, Archbishop Akubeze championed evangelisation, youth development, interfaith dialogue, and the strengthening of Catholic education. He also encouraged Christians to actively contribute to nation-building through integrity, service, and respect for democratic values.

News of his death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from members of the clergy, religious organisations, public officials, and faithful across the country, many of whom have described his passing as a significant loss to the Catholic Church and the nation.

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria has yet to announce the cause of death or release details regarding his funeral rites and burial arrangements. It is expected that the Archdiocese of Benin City and the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria will provide further information in the coming days.

As the Church mourns his passing, Catholics across Nigeria continue to pray for the eternal repose of Archbishop Akubeze, remembering his years of dedicated pastoral service, unwavering faith, and enduring contributions to the growth of the Catholic Church and the moral development of the nation.