Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Warri over the death of its Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who passed on at the age of 78.
In a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, the Governor described the late cleric as a revered servant of God whose life of faith, humility and selfless service left an enduring imprint on the Church and society.
Governor Oborevwori said he was saddened by the lo ss, noting that Bishop Afareha’s years of priestly and episcopal ministry were marked by spiritual discipline, pastoral simplicity and an unwavering commitment to the growth of the Catholic faith, particularly within the Warri Diocese.
“The passing of Bishop Afareha is a great loss, not only to the Catholic Church but to Delta State and humanity at large. He was a father, a shepherd and a man of deep prayer whose life exemplified service, sacrifice and total obedience to the will of God,” the Governor stated.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, the clergy, religious and faithful of the diocese, as well as the family of the deceased, praying that God grants them comfort and strength in this time of grief.
The Governor also prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Bishop’s soul, asking God to grant him eternal rest and reward him for a lifetime of devoted service to the Church and to mankind.
Bishop Afareha was ordained a Catholic priest on December 30, 1973, and was consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997. The Catholic Diocese of Warri announced his passing with “profound sorrow, yet with firm hope in the resurrection,” commending his soul to God’s infinite mercy.
