The Catholic Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, the Chairman of the Catholics Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) , Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso ,
the presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Mr. Peter Obi and the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo on Thursday paid glowing tributes to the late Archbishop of
Cross section of Catholic priests at the funeral Mass
Benin, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, describing him as a dedicated servant of God who lived a life of sacrifice, humility and service to humanity.
Pope Leo XIV, in a condolence message conveyed through the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, recalled Archbishop Akubeze’s years of dedication to his episcopal ministry and his service as President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.
The Pope also commended the late Archbishop’s pastoral initiatives and his commitment to the Church, expressing his condolences over the death of the cleric.
The tributes were made at the funeral Mass for the late Archbishop held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Benin City, Edo State, where his remains were later taken to the Holy Cross Cathedral for internment.
In his tribute , the Chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso of the Archdiocese of Kaduna, described Akubeze as an epitome of humility, commitment and generosity.
Ndagoso said the late Archbishop, who served as President of the CBCN, remained a source of inspiration to the Church and its members until his death.
He described Akubeze as “a man of extraordinary virtue, humble yet fearless, gentle yet unwavering in his commitment to truth and justice.”
According to him, the late Archbishop’s deep spiritual life, sustained by prayer and reflection, gave him
He said Akubeze’s tenure as President of the CBCN was marked by a deep commitment to unity, noting that his wise counsel continued to shape the affairs of the Conference.
Ndagoso also recalled the late Archbishop’s compassion and generosity, saying he was known for patiently listening to the problems of both clergy and laity and for his willingness to help those in need.
The presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress ( NDC) , Mr Peter Obi, while speaking to journalists at the venue, described the late Archbishop’s life as exceptional and sacrificial, urging Nigerians to emulate his virtues.
He said, “Archbishop Akubeze lived an exceptional life. He lived his life for others. His life was sacrificial. Nigerians should learn from him. May the God who called him grant his soul eternal rest.”
Also, in his tribute, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, thanked God for the life and priestly ministry of the late Archbishop.
Okpebholo said Akubeze carried out his calling with dedication, faith, courage and love for the people entrusted to his care.
“We thank God for the gift of his life, his priestly ministry, and his service to the Church and to God’s people. He carried out his calling with dedication, faith, courage, and love for the people entrusted to his care,” the governor said.
He added that although the state mourned the Archbishop’s death, it also celebrated the legacy he left behind, particularly the lives he touched and his contributions to the growth of the Church.
Motorcade conveying the remains of the Archbishop
The funeral Mass attracted prominent Catholic and political leaders, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja; Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia, Anambra State; Governor Okpebholo; Peter Obi; and about 62 Catholic bishops, among other dignitaries.
