Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has expressed deep sorrow over the death of His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu, the third Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, describing him as a steadfast advocate for justice, unity, and love.
In a condolence message issued on Saturday, the governor said the state received the news of the bishop’s passing with shock, noting that Bishop Chukwu was not only a revered shepherd of God’s flock but also a spiritual colossus whose life embodied humility, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to the service of God and humanity.
He added that the bishop’s death is a great loss to Ebonyi State, the Catholic community, and Nigeria as a whole.
“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ebonyi State, I extend my deepest condolences to the Supreme Pontiff, the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious and lay faithful, as well as the immediate and extended family of the late bishop,” Nwifuru stated.
The governor noted that the bishop’s passing marks the end of an era of profound spiritual guidance, moral clarity, and fatherly leadership in Ebonyi State and beyond.
“With a heart weighed down by deep sorrow, yet comforted by the eternal promises of God, I received the news of the passing unto glory of His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu, the third Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki,” he said.
Describing the late cleric as a proud son of Ebonyi State from Ededeagu Umuezeokohu in Ezza North Local Government Area, Nwifuru said Bishop Chukwu distinguished himself as an icon of faith, a promoter of peace, and a tireless advocate for justice, unity, and love.
“Through his pastoral mission, he touched countless lives, strengthened families, and nurtured the spiritual growth of our people,” he added.
He further noted that the bishop’s voice in times of uncertainty and his counsel served as a source of divine wisdom to leaders and the faithful alike.
While mourning his passing, the governor said he draws comfort from the Holy Scriptures, particularly 2 Timothy 4:7, which states: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
“Indeed, Bishop Chukwu lived a life worthy of this testimony. He ran his race with grace and finished strong in the vineyard of the Lord,” he said.
Nwifuru added that the state shares in the pain of the Catholic faithful while also celebrating a life well spent in service to God and humanity.
“As a government, we recognise the role Bishop Chukwu played in fostering moral discipline, rectitude, and social harmony,” he noted.
He prayed that Almighty God would grant the late bishop eternal rest and give all who mourn him the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
“Adieu, faithful servant of God. Rest in the bosom of the Lord,” the governor said.
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