Governor Nwifuru Mourns Bishop Chukwu, Hails Him as Justice Advocate
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has expressed profound sorrow and shock over the passing of His Lordship, Most Reverend Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu, the third Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki. In a heartfelt condolence message issued on Saturday, the governor described the late bishop as a steadfast advocate for justice, unity, and love, whose death represents a significant loss to the state, the Catholic community, and Nigeria as a whole.
A Spiritual Colossus and Revered Shepherd
Governor Nwifuru emphasized that Bishop Chukwu was not merely a religious leader but a spiritual colossus whose life was characterized by humility, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to serving God and humanity. The governor noted that the bishop's passing marks the end of an era of profound spiritual guidance, moral clarity, and fatherly leadership that extended beyond Ebonyi State.
"With a heart weighed down by deep sorrow, yet comforted by the eternal promises of God, I received the news of the passing unto glory of His Lordship," Nwifuru stated, reflecting on the emotional impact of the loss.
Condolences to the Catholic Community and Family
On behalf of the Ebonyi State Government and its people, Governor Nwifuru extended his deepest condolences to the Supreme Pontiff, the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious and lay faithful, as well as the immediate and extended family of the late bishop. He acknowledged the bishop's role as a proud son of Ebonyi State from Ededeagu Umuezeokohu in Ezza North Local Government Area, who distinguished himself as an icon of faith and a promoter of peace.
Legacy of Pastoral Mission and Divine Wisdom
Through his pastoral mission, Bishop Chukwu touched countless lives, strengthened families, and nurtured the spiritual growth of the people, according to the governor. Nwifuru highlighted that the bishop's voice in times of uncertainty and his counsel served as a source of divine wisdom for both leaders and the faithful alike, fostering moral discipline, rectitude, and social harmony in the community.
"As a government, we recognise the role Bishop Chukwu played in fostering moral discipline, rectitude, and social harmony," Nwifuru noted, underscoring the bishop's impact on societal values.
Drawing Comfort from Scripture
While mourning the loss, Governor Nwifuru said he draws comfort from the Holy Scriptures, particularly 2 Timothy 4:7, which states: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." He affirmed that Bishop Chukwu lived a life worthy of this testimony, having run his race with grace and finished strong in the vineyard of the Lord.
The governor added that the state shares in the pain of the Catholic faithful while also celebrating a life well spent in service to God and humanity. He prayed that Almighty God would grant the late bishop eternal rest and provide strength to all who mourn this irreparable loss.
"Adieu, faithful servant of God. Rest in the bosom of the Lord," Governor Nwifuru concluded, bidding a final farewell to the revered cleric.
