The former Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki has mourned the passing of the oldest Catholic Priest in Nigeria, Monsignor Thomas Oleghe.

Mr Oleghe died on Sunday in Benin City at the age of 104.

The former governor in a statement by his media aide, Crusoe Osagie, described the late priest as a great missionary of the Catholic faith. 

“I am deeply saddened by the death of Oleghe, who passed at the age of 104.

“He was a dedicated and compassionate priest, who worked for the growth of the Christian faith and the development of his community.

“He remained an inspiration to many and a model that a lot of young people looked up to.

“I celebrate his impactful service to God and humanity and appreciate his work in the Lord’s vineyard in Edo State, where he served for many years promoting peace and development,” he said.

According to Mr Obaseki, he said he commiserates with His Grace, Most Reverend Gabriel Dunia, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, and the entire Nigerian Catholic community over Mr Oleghe’s passing.

He prayed that God would grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.