Catholic Bishop Emeritus of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Okobo, dies at 89

Catholic community in Nsukka is mourning its pioneering bishop, Most Reverend Francis Emmanuel Ogbonna Okobo, who died at the age of 89 in Enugu.

In a heartfelt statement released on Friday, Reverend Father Greg Nnamani, Vicar General of the Nsukka Catholic Diocese, shared the sad news.

“With heavy hearts, yet with unwavering faith in God’s divine plan and the promise of eternal life, we announce the passing of our beloved Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Francis Okobo,” Nnamani said.

He said: “He entered into eternal rest on the morning of August 29 at Niger Foundation Hospital after a brief illness.”

Further details regarding the bishop’s passing and funeral arrangements will be shared in due course, Nnamani stated.

He prayed: “May his gentle soul find eternal peace. Amen.”

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Born on November 4, 1936, in the Lejja Community of Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State, Okobo dedicated his life to serving the Church.

Ordained as a priest in 1966, he went on to become the first bishop of the Nsukka Catholic Diocese when it was established in 1990, following its separation from the Enugu Catholic Diocese.

He faithfully led the diocese until his retirement in 2013, leaving a lasting legacy of spiritual leadership and community service.

Okobo’s life and ministry touched countless lives, and his passing marks the end of an era for the Nsukka Catholic Diocese.

“The faithful are invited to pray for the repose of his soul as the community reflects on his enduring contributions,” he said.