Governor Monday Okpebholo and senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State, have mourned the death of the Catholic Archbishop of Benin, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze.
The cleric died while vacationing abroad, just weeks shy of his 70th birthday.
Okpebholo described the archbishop's passing as a painful loss to Christians, Edo State and Nigeria. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr.
Patrick Ebojele, the governor said Archbishop Akubeze stood out as a humble shepherd who championed justice, peace and good governance throughout his ministry.
"Archbishop Akubeze was a man of deep faith, wisdom and uncommon humility," Okpebholo said. "He dedicated his life to serving God and uplifting humanity."
The governor noted that the late cleric was a powerful moral voice who consistently pushed for justice, peace, unity and care for the poor. "His passing is a great loss not only to the Catholic Church but also to Edo State and the nation.
We have lost a respected spiritual father whose counsel and commitment to truth inspired many within and outside the Church," he added.
Okpebholo pledged the Edo State Government's solidarity and support to the Catholic community during this period of grief. He called on all Edo people, regardless of faith, to pray for the archbishop's peaceful repose.
Oshiomhole, in a condolence statement released by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Victor Oshioke, hailed the late cleric as a courageous Gospel witness and compassionate shepherd.
The senator said he learned of Archbishop Akubeze's death at 69 with "profound shock and heartfelt sadness."
According to Oshiomhole, the archbishop's simplicity, accessibility, gentleness and firm commitment to truth and justice earned him admiration from Catholics and non-Catholics alike. The senator noted that the cleric lived faithfully to his episcopal motto, "Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati"—meaning "That I may bear witness to the Truth."
Reflecting on their interactions when he served as governor, Oshiomhole said he was always struck by the archbishop's sharp intellect, deep spirituality and rich pastoral experience. "His counsel was measured, his convictions were principled, and his life was a testament to selfless service," the senator stated.
