By Abraham Ovuoba
Pope Pope Leo XIV, represented by the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, Michael Grotty, during the solemn funeral Mass of Bishop Peter Nworie Chukwu, Ph.D, expressed deep sorrow over his death and consoled the clergy, religious, and laity of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, as well as his family and friends beyond the Catholic community.
The Pope noted that Bishop Chukwu’s episcopal ministry was marked by pastoral outreach, formation of the laity in the social doctrine of the Church, and the strengthening of diocesan institutions.
Delivering the homily, the Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Lucius Ugorji, said the late bishop was a compassionate shepherd who remained close to his flock and guided them with biblical principles according to the Church’s doctrine.
“He was a prophetic voice, a strong advocate for the voiceless, and an active crusader for justice,” Ugorji added.
In a glowing tribute, Ebonyi State Governor, Rt Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru said Bishop Chukwu lived not for comfort but for conviction. “He stood for truth even when truth became unpopular.”
Apart from members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, who attended the burial in large numbers, other prominent political figures present included 2027 National Democratic Congress presidential aspirant Peter Obi, Gov Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Anyim Pius Anyim, former Ebonyi State Governor Martin Elechi, lawmakers, among others.
Born on November 5, 1965, in Ededeagu Umuezekoha, Ezza North Local Government Area, he studied Philosophy at Seat of Wisdom Seminary between 1985 and 1989 before proceeding to Bigard Memorial Major Seminary for theological studies from 1990 to 1993.
He also attended Franciscan University of Steubenville and Marquette University, where he obtained a doctorate degree in Philosophy.
Bishop Chukwu was ordained a Catholic priest on July 3, 1993, for the Diocese of Abakaliki and passed on April 8, 2026, at the age of 60.
