The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Peter Nworie Chukwu, describing his death as “the end of an era of profound spiritual guidance and moral leadership.”
Bishop Chukwu, who was the 3rd Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, died on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the age of 60. His death was officially confirmed in a statement issued by the Vicar General of the Diocese, Donatus Oluwa Chukwu.
In a press statement released on April 11, 2026, Governor Nwifuru said he received the news of the Bishop’s passing with “a heart weighed down by deep sorrow,” while drawing comfort from the promises of eternal life in the scriptures.
He described the late Bishop as “a revered shepherd, a spiritual colossus, and a man whose life embodied humility, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to God and humanity.”
According to the Governor, Bishop Chukwu, a native of Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, distinguished himself as a promoter of peace, unity, and justice, whose pastoral mission impacted countless lives and strengthened the moral fabric of society.
“His transition marks the end of an era of fatherly leadership, moral clarity, and spiritual direction not only in Ebonyi State but beyond,” Nwifuru stated.
The Governor also noted that the late Bishop’s voice in times of uncertainty and his counsel served as a source of divine wisdom to both leaders and the faithful.
Quoting 2 Timothy 4:7, he said, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,” adding that Bishop Chukwu lived a life worthy of that testimony.
Born on November 5, 1965, Bishop Chukwu was ordained a priest on July 3, 1993. He was later consecrated and installed as Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese on August 19, 2021.
On behalf of the government and people of Ebonyi State, Governor Nwifuru extended condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious and lay faithful, as well as the immediate and extended family of the deceased.
He acknowledged the late Bishop’s contributions to promoting moral discipline, social harmony, and spiritual growth, noting that his passing is a significant loss to both the Church and the nation.
Funeral arrangements, according to the Diocese, will be announced at a later date.
The Governor prayed for the repose of the Bishop’s soul and urged the faithful to find strength in faith during this period of mourning.
“Adieu, faithful servant of God. Rest in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement concluded.
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