Oldest Catholic Priest in Nigeria Dies at 104, Eulogized as “dedicated, compassionate Priest”

“May his lovely and gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen,” Bishop Dunia implored.

Born in February 1920, Mons. Oleghe was ordained a Priest in December 1957.

He served in various parishes in Auchi Diocese including St. John The Apostle Igarra Parish in Akoko-Edo local government where he initiated reforms that laid the foundation to the glorious status of the Church today.

In a statement, the former Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki eulogized Mons. Oleghe as a “great missionary of the Catholic faith.”

“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, Msgr. Thomas Oleghe,” Mr Obaseki says.

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He added, “He was a dedicated and compassionate Priest who worked for the growth of the Christian faith and the development of his community. He remained an inspiration to many and a model that a lot of young people looked up to.”

“I celebrate his impactful service to God and humanity, working and commend his work in the Lord's vineyard in Edo State, where he served for many years promoting peace and development,” Obaseki adds.

He further commiserates with Bishop Dunia and the entire Nigerian Catholic community and pray that “God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Meanwhile, the Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has expressed sorrow over the passing of Mons. Oleghe.

In a statement, Mr. Oshiomhole describes Mons. Oleghe as a “paragon of Priestly humility and a steadfast champion of Christian values.”

He says the late Catholic Priest’s life was a “shining testament to the virtues of faith, humility, and devotion.”

“His transition is a profound loss, not just to our diocese but to the nation at large. Even as we mourn him, we are comforted by the assurance that his impactful life resonated with God, who blessed him with longevity before calling him to eternal rest,” Mr. Oshiomhole says.

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.