By Abraham Ovuoba
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has described the death of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakakiki, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu as a monumental loss to Ebonyi State, the Catholic Church, and the nation, saying the late cleric’s exit has created a vacuum too difficult to fill.
Speaking during the burial ceremony of the late Bishop on Wednesday in Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru said the passing of Bishop Chukwu marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the spiritual and moral history of the state.
He described the late Bishop as a fearless shepherd, moral voice, and courageous servant of God who dedicated his life to truth, justice, and the service of humanity.
According to the Governor, Bishop Chukwu was one of the rare clerics whose influence transcended the altar and impacted society positively through his unwavering stand on morality, discipline, accountability, and righteousness.
“Bishop Chukwu lived not for comfort, but for conviction. He stood for truth even when truth became unpopular and defended justice even when injustice appeared powerful,” Nwifuru stated.
The Governor noted that at a time when society is grappling with moral decline, insecurity, and economic challenges, the late Bishop represented hope, integrity, and moral rebirth, making his death even more painful.
He further praised the late cleric’s contributions to spiritual revival, evangelism, and the strengthening of Catholic institutions across the state, describing him as a father to the vulnerable and a moral compass to leaders.
He urged Catholic faithful not to mourn without hope, assuring that the late Bishop’s legacies of courage, excellence, and faith would continue to inspire generations.
Apart from the clergy, Peter Obi witnessed the lowering of the remains of the late Bishop to mother earth at St. Theresa’s Cathedral at the age of 60.
