Edo Governor, Catholic Community Mourn Nigeria’s Oldest Priest, Monsignor Thomas Oleghe

 

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo

 

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condoled with the Catholic community over the demise of Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, Nigeria’s oldest Catholic priest, at the age of 104, on Sunday.

The Governor, in a statement on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, described Monsignor Oleghe as a model of humility, sacrifice, and selfless service, lauding his life and legacy. He also commiserated with Oleghe’s family, the Auchi Diocese, and the entire Catholic Church in Nigeria.

Even though he lived a fulfilling life and lived to the fullest, he died at the ripe age of 104 years, yet we are not leaving to miss his fatherly roles and lives he touched,” Okpebholo said. “I join on behalf of the government and people of Edo State in extending my most profound condolence to his family and the Catholic Church. I pray that God grants his soul eternal rest.

Oleghe was highly respected in the Catholic Church and within his community, coming from Igiode in Etsako East Local Government Area.

Bishop Gabriel Dunia of the Auchi Diocese also confirmed the death of the priest, stating that Monsignor Oleghe died at about 2:30 am on Sunday. He said the burial arrangement had been slated for Wednesday, November 27, 2024.

“We announce the passage with gratitude to God for a life well-lived of Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” Dunia said.

The late Monsignor Oleghe is remembered for his enormous contribution to the Church, standing firm in commitment to service throughout his long and eventful life.