Hon Dr. Ikpea mourns as oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, Msgr Thomas Oleghe, passes away at 104.
Dr. J. Ikpea, former Edo State Commissioner for Oil, Gas and Solid Minerals and Edo Central Senatorial Aspirant, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, who passed away at the age of 104.
The centenarian priest, from Igiode near Agenebode in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, died peacefully at 2:30 a.m. on Sunday.
His death was announced by His Lordship Gabriel Dunia; Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi.
In a condolence Message issued, Ikpea described the late Monsignor Oleghe as a true character of priestly humility and a committed champion of Christian values.
He noted that his life was a powerful example of faith, devotion, and humility.
In a condolence message to Bishop Dunia, Ikpea said: “It is with a very heavy heart but total submission to the will of God that I condole with you, the entire Catholic faithfuls and the Christian community, on the death of Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe.
“His transition is a profound loss, not just to the diocese, the Catholic community and the nation at large.
“As a servant of God, Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe contributed to the spiritual growth and development of the church and humanity for many years. His decades of service will not be easily forgotten,” Ikpea said.
He prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the immediate family and the Church the fortitude to bear the huge and irreparable loss.
Courtesy: IKPEA ADVOCACY MOVEMENT
