Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and representative of Edo North Senatorial District, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, who passed away at the age of 104.
The centenarian priest, from Igiode near Agenebode in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, died peacefully at 2:30 a.m. on Sunday.
His death was announced by His Lordship Gabriel Dunia, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi.
Bishop Dunia had been anticipating Monsignor Oleghe’s next birthday, which would have been on February 6, 2024, and disclosed that the late priest’s funeral would take place on November 27, 2024, following a burial at the Catholic Cemetery in Ivhianokpodi, near Agenebode.
Having retired three years ago, Monsignor Oleghe spent his final years in his hometown of Igiode, after serving as a priest at the local Catholic Church in Fugar, Etsako Central LGA of Edo state.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Victor Oshioke, Oshiomhole described the late Monsignor Oleghe as a symbol of priestly humility and a staunch advocate of Christian values, noting that his life was a powerful example of faith, devotion, and humility.
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In a condolence message to Bishop Dunia, Oshiomhole said: “It is with a very heavy heart that I write to commiserate with you, the Catholic Church, and indeed the Nigerian Christian family on the death of Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe. His transition is a profound loss, not just to our diocese, but to the nation at large.
“The late priest was remarkably frank, pious, and humane. I praise him for his unwavering commitment to guiding believers and fostering societal betterment, through moral teachings.
“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.”
The Edo North Senator also prayed for divine strength for the members of Catholic community in Auchi and beyond, urging them to draw solace from Monsignor Oleghe’s exemplary legacy of service and faith.