The Catholic community in Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the passing of the Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Most Rev. Michael Olatunji Fagun.

Bishop Fagun died at the age of 90.

Bishop Fagun, the pioneer bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, was widely revered for his pastoral zeal, humility, and lifelong dedication to the service of God and humanity.

In a statement signed by the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Kehinde Temitope Ajayi, the cleric passed on peacefully in the late hours of Monday, 13 October, 2025 after a brief illness.

Details of his burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the diocesan authorities in the coming days.

Born in 1935, Most Rev. Michael Olatunji Fagun was ordained a priest in 1965 and appointed the first Bishop of Ekiti Diocese in 1971.

Over the course of his ministry, he played a vital role in nurturing the Catholic faith across Ekiti and neighboring regions, establishing parishes, schools, and social development projects that continue to impact lives today.

In 2010, he retired from active episcopal service, having shepherded the diocese for nearly four decades.

Even in retirement, Bishop Fagun remained a father figure and spiritual guide to many clergy and lay faithful, often described as a man of deep prayer, simplicity, and unwavering faith.