Pope Leo XIV has led tributes for the late Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Peter Nworie Chukwu, whose remains were interred Wednesday inside St. Theresa’s Cathedral, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State after a solemn funeral Mass.
The Pope, represented by Papal Nuncio Archbishop Michael Grotty, condoled with the clergy, religious, laity, the bishop’s family, and Ebonyi State Government and people.
He praised Bishop Chukwu’s episcopal ministry for its pastoral outreach, laity formation in Catholic social doctrine, and strengthening of diocesan institutions, and prayed for the repose of his soul.
In his homily, Owerri Ecclesiastical Province Archbishop Lucius Ugorji described Chukwu as a close, compassionate shepherd and a tireless prophetic voice.
“He was a strong advocate for the voiceless and an active crusader for social justice, fearlessly speaking truth to power in condemnation of social injustice, greed, and corruption,” Ugorji said.
He noted the bishop lived true to his motto: “I’m Totally Yours,” reflecting Marian spirituality and total dedication to God and his flock.
The President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, called Chukwu a humble, courageous servant who served until death as Assistant Secretary of the conference.
“He never sought the spotlight, but his quiet competence, calm disposition, and deep spirituality made him a pillar among us,” Ndagoso said.
Governor Francis Nwifuru said Ebonyi State and Nigeria lost a leader of rare moral stature at a time of insecurity and declining values.
“He stood for truth even when truth became unpopular… and reminded us that the Church must never surrender its prophetic voice,” Nwifuru stated, noting that Chukwu’s episcopacy brought spiritual revival and deeper moral consciousness to the state.
Dignitaries at the funeral included the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Francis Nwifuru; former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim; Deputy Governor Patricia Obila; former Governor Martin Elechi; lawmakers; and 42 members of the CBCN.
Bishop Chukwu died aged 60 on April 10, 2026 following a brief illness.
Born November 5, 1965 in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Bishop Chukwu was ordained a priest in 1993.
He was installed as the third Bishop of Abakaliki on August 19, 2021.
He studied at Seat of Wisdom Seminary, Bigard Memorial Seminary, Franciscan University of Steubenville, and earned a PhD from Marquette University.
