The Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City has announced the death of Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze, a former president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.
Akubeze died on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the age of 69, according to statements reported by Channels TV and Punch.
The reports said the announcement was made by the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Rev. Michael Banjo, on behalf of the consultors of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City.
Akubeze served as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and previously led the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, one of the country’s most influential Christian bodies.
The Archdiocese described him as a humble church leader whose ministry focused on pastoral care, spiritual growth, development work and the formation and welfare of priests.
His death leaves the Catholic Church in Nigeria, especially the Benin City Archdiocese, without one of its most prominent leaders.
Sources: Channels TV, Punch
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