The Bishop Emeritus of Nsukka Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Emmanuel Ogbonnia Okobo, has passed away at the age of 89.
A statement issued on Friday by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria confirmed that Bishop Okobo died at the Niger Foundation Hospital, Enugu.
“It is with total submission to the will of Almighty God and steadfast hope in the resurrection of the dead, that the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria announces the passing to eternal glory of Most Rev. Francis Emmanuel Ogbonnia Okobo,” the statement partly read.
Born on November 4, 1936, Okobo was ordained a priest on June 4, 1966. He was later appointed Bishop of Nsukka Diocese on November 19, 1990, and received episcopal ordination on January 6, 1991. He retired from office on April 13, 2013.
During his years as bishop, Okobo played a pioneering role in laying the foundation of the Nsukka Diocese, nurturing its growth in faith, infrastructure, and institutions. He was widely regarded as a shepherd who deepened Catholic presence in the region and guided the spiritual development of the faithful.
The Secretariat further noted that funeral arrangements and other related liturgical observances would be announced in due course.
“We invite the faithful to commend his soul to the merciful embrace of our Lord. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen,” the statement added.
