Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, the Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, died on Thursday, 9 July 2026, at the age of 69, with the Catholic community mourning the loss of a respected cleric and church leader.

The announcement of Augustine Akubeze’s death was made by the Chancellor of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Oyanoafoh, who expressed sorrow over the passing of the Archbishop while highlighting the hope of resurrection in the Catholic faith.

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“On behalf of the Consultors of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, we announce with profound sorrow, yet with a firm hope in the resurrection, the passing of our dearly beloved father and Archbishop, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, who was called home to the Lord on Thursday, July 9, 2026,” the statement read.

Archbishop Akubeze was ordained a Catholic priest on 3 October 1987. He was appointed Bishop of Uromi on 14 December 2005 and consecrated on 25 February 2006.

He was later appointed Archbishop of Benin City on 18 March 2011 and installed on 28 April 2011, a position he held until his death.

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria described the late Archbishop as a dedicated shepherd who promoted both spiritual growth and the wider development of the Church community.

In a statement signed by the Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Michael A. O, the Secretariat said Akubeze contributed significantly to the progress of the Archdiocese of Benin City and remained committed to the welfare and formation of priests.

The Secretariat also remembered him as a former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, describing him as a strong voice for faith and a leader guided by his episcopal motto, “Ut Testimonium perhibeam veritati” (John 18:37), meaning “That I may bear witness to the Truth.”

Church leaders praised his humility, generosity and dedication to service, noting that his leadership reflected the Catholic belief that authority should be expressed through care and service to others.

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The Archdiocese of Benin City has urged the faithful to pray for the repose of his soul, while funeral arrangements are expected to be announced at a later date.