The Most Rev. Francis Emmanuel Ogbonnia Okobo, who was the Bishop Emeritus of Nsukka Catholic Diocese, has sadly passed away at the age of 89. This sad news was shared by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria on Friday, which stated that he died at the Niger Foundation Hospital in Enugu.

The statement by the Catholic diocese on Friday reads “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.”

Father Okobo was born on November 4, 1936, in the small town of Nsukka. He became a priest on June 4, 1966, after finishing his studies and training. His strong commitment to the church and the community led to him being named the Bishop of Nsukka Diocese on November 19, 1990. He was officially made a bishop on January 6, 1991, and during his time, he was known for his caring nature and dedication to education and social justice in the diocese.

Bishop Okobo served the Nsukka diocese with distinction until his retirement on April 13, 2013, leaving behind a rich legacy of faith and leadership.

Further details regarding his funeral arrangements and liturgical observances are expected to be communicated to the faithful and the general public in due course, ensuring that the community can honour his memory and contributions appropriately.