The Catholic community in Nigeria mourns the loss of its oldest priest, Rt. Rev. Monsignor Thomas Oleghe, who passed away peacefully at the age of 104.
The Archdiocese of Auchi announced his death in a statement released by Archbishop Gabriel Dunia, revealing that the revered cleric died early Sunday morning, November 24, 2024, at approximately 2:30 a.m.
Archbishop Dunia’s statement expressed profound gratitude to God for Monsignor Oleghe’s long and impactful life of service. “With gratitude to God for a life well lived on earth, I hereby inform you of the passing of the Rt. Rev. MSGR Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria as of today, to the great beyond at approximately 2:30 am this morning, November 24, 2024. He was of the Diocese of Auchi. He died at the age of 104. May his lovely and gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
Monsignor Oleghe’s remarkable legacy includes decades of spiritual leadership, community service, and unwavering commitment to the Church. As a cherished figure within the Diocese of Auchi, he was admired for his humility, wisdom, and devotion to his faith.
The Diocese has announced that Monsignor Oleghe’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. The Church community, family, and friends are expected to gather to celebrate his extraordinary life and bid farewell to a beloved servant of God.
May Monsignor Thomas Oleghe’s gentle soul rest in eternal peace.
