Tears, prayers as Anambra Catholic priest killed by gunmen is laid to rest
Tears and prayers filled the air in Anambra State on Thursday as the community gathered to lay to rest Rev. Fr. Tobias Okonkwo, a dedicated priest of the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi. Fr. Okonkwo was tragically abducted and murdered by gunmen in Ihiala on December 26, 2024.
The funeral Mass drew hundreds of priests, Reverend Sisters, family members, and friends, and was led by His Lordship, Most Rev. Denis Isizoh, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Aguleri. Joining him in concelebration were Most Rev. Jonas-Benson Okoye, the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, and Most Rev. Patrick Eluke, the Auxiliary Bishop of Port Harcourt Diocese.
During his homily, Monsignor Anichebe Patrick Ezeobata, the Vicar General of the Nnewi Diocese, expressed deep sorrow over Fr. Okonkwo’s untimely passing. He highlighted that, despite his youth, the priest had made significant contributions to his community and had devoted his life to pastoral care and service.
Ordained in July 2015, Fr. Okonkwo had just completed his pharmacy internship in October 2024 and was appointed as the manager of the School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Medical Laboratory Sciences at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala. Sadly, he held this position for only two months before his life was cut short.
Among the dignitaries present at the burial were Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, and Prof. Stella Chinyere Okunna, the former Anambra State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, among others.
Fr. Okonkwo’s murder has ignited widespread outrage throughout the state, prompting calls for justice and enhanced security measures to safeguard citizens against violent crimes. As family, friends, and parishioners grieve, they continue to pray for his soul and for an end to such senseless acts of violence.
