By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Warri over the death of its Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who passed on at the age of 78.
In a condolence message issued in Asaba and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the late cleric as a revered servant of God whose life of faith, humility and dedication to humanity left an indelible mark on the Church and society.
Governor Oborevwori said he received the news of Bishop Afareha’s passing with profound sadness, noting that his years of priestly and episcopal service were marked by spiritual discipline, pastoral simplicity and unwavering commitment to the growth of the Catholic faith, particularly in the Warri Diocese.
“The passing of Bishop Afareha is a great loss not only to the Catholic Church but to Delta State and humanity at large,” the governor said.
“He was a father, a shepherd and a man of deep prayer whose life exemplified service, sacrifice and obedience to the will of God.”
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, the clergy, religious and faithful of the diocese, as well as members of the deceased’s family, praying that God grants them comfort and fortitude in their moment of grief.
Governor Oborevwori also prayed for the peaceful repose of the late bishop’s soul, asking God to grant him eternal rest and reward him for a lifetime of devoted service to the Church and mankind.
Bishop Afareha was ordained a Catholic priest on December 30, 1973, and was consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997.
The Catholic Diocese of Warri announced his death with “profound sorrow, yet with a firm hope in the resurrection,” commending his soul to God’s infinite mercy.