Senator Neda Imasuen Mourns Archbishop Akubeze, Hails Legacy of Faith and Service
Late Archbishop Akubeze and when he visited Senator Neda to concentrate the Grotto of Blessed Virgin Mary at the home of Distinguished Senator Neda Imasuen in Benin City
By Reporter
Senator Neda Bernards Imasuen has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze, describing his passing as a monumental loss to the Catholic Church, Edo State and Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday, the senator said he received the news of Archbishop Akubeze’s death with profound sadness, noting that the late cleric’s transition on Thursday evening had thrown the Catholic community and the nation into mourning.
Imasuen paid glowing tribute to the late Archbishop, describing him as a distinguished shepherd, an unwavering advocate of truth, justice, peace and national unity, whose ministry was marked by humility, wisdom and moral courage.
According to the senator, Archbishop Akubeze dedicated his life to proclaiming the Gospel, defending human dignity and fostering harmony across religious and ethnic divides, while inspiring countless faithful through his exemplary leadership and commitment to righteousness.
“The passing of Archbishop Akubeze at the age of 69 is a monumental loss to the Catholic faithful, the Christian community and the nation at large. While we grieve his departure, we take solace in the enduring legacy of faith, compassion and selfless service he leaves behind,” he said.
Imasuen extended his condolences on behalf of his family and the people of Edo South Senatorial District to the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, the Catholic Church in Edo State, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious and lay faithful, as well as the late Archbishop’s family.
He also prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved, citing John 11:25–26, which speaks of the hope of resurrection for believers.
The senator concluded by praying for the repose of Archbishop Akubeze’s soul, saying, “May Almighty God grant the soul of Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon him. Amen.”
Archbishop Akubeze, who served as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, died on Thursday evening at the age of 69. His death has elicited tributes from religious leaders, public officials and faithful across the country.
