Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Benin City Ecclesiastical Province, describing him as a compassionate shepherd and fearless voice of truth.
In a condolence message, Obi said he was saddened by the Archbishop’s passing, recalling that he recently had the privilege of listening to him preach as the homilist during the Thanksgiving Mass marking the 90th birthday of Cardinal Anthony Okogie.
He described Archbishop Akubeze as a distinguished Church leader whose tenure as former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) was marked by exemplary leadership, spiritual renewal, justice, peace, and commitment to the development of humanity.
Obi praised the late cleric’s humility, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the Gospel, noting that his service to the Church and the nation would continue to inspire generations.
The former Anambra State governor extended his condolences to the Archdiocese of Benin City, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the Catholic faithful, and the Archbishop’s family, praying that God grants him eternal rest and comforts all those mourning his passing.
