Archbishop Akubeze Laid To Rest In Benin

The remains of the former Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, have been laid to rest following a funeral Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport Road, Benin City, Edo State.

In his homily, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, called on Nigerians, irrespective of their religious, ethnic or geographical backgrounds, to embrace love, unity and peaceful coexistence.

He described the late Archbishop Akubeze as a man who made significant contributions to the Catholic Church and society, urging the faithful to uphold the values of service, compassion and unity which he represented.

The funeral also featured goodwill messages and tributes in honour of the late Archbishop, with Governor Okpebholo and other Catholic leaders paying glowing tributes to his life and contributions to the Church and society.

Governor Okpebholo described the death of the late Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Benin City as a painful loss, while commending his contributions to the Catholic Church and humanity.

According to the governor, Archbishop Akubeze carried out his calling with dedication, faith, courage and love for the people he served.

The late Archbishop Akubeze, who was a former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, was remembered for his pastoral leadership, commitment to the growth of the Catholic Church and advocacy for peace and unity.

At the conclusion of the funeral Mass, the body was taken to the Mausoleum at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Benin City, where he was interred.

The ceremony brought together Catholic leaders, political figures, family members and faithful from across the country to bid farewell to one of Nigeria’s prominent Catholic clerics.

Archbishop Akubeze the cleric passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at the age of 69.