Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, Nigeria’s oldest Catholic priest, has passed away at the age of 104.
His death occurred peacefully at approximately 2:30 a.m. on November 24, 2024.
The Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Gabriel G. Dunia, confirmed the news in a statement to the clergy and Catholic faithful, expressing gratitude for Oleghe’s long and impactful life.
“With gratitude to God for a life well lived on earth, I hereby inform you of the passage of Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, to the great beyond at about 2:30 a.m. this morning, November 24, 2024. He was of the Diocese of Auchi and passed away at the age of 104. May his lovely and gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen,” Bishop Dunia stated.
Oleghe’s funeral is scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Throughout his life, Monsignor Oleghe made significant contributions to the Catholic Church in Nigeria, particularly through his transformative work at St. John The Apostle Catholic Church in Igarra, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
His legacy as a dedicated servant of God and a foundational figure in the church will be cherished for generations to come.
