Abakaliki Diocese Sets Dates for Funeral of Bishop Peter Chukwu

The Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki has announced funeral arrangements for its late bishop, Most Rev. Peter Nworie Chukwu, who died on 10 April at the age of 60.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Diocesan Chancellor and signed by Very Rev. Fr. Matthew Uzoma Opoke, the Diocese said a series of funeral rites would be held in May, drawing clergy, religious faithful and members of the public from across Nigeria. 

It described his death as a significant loss to the Catholic community.

According to the statement, a vigil Mass will take place on 12 May, followed by a funeral Mass on 13 May. Both services are scheduled to be held at St Theresa Cathedral, Abakaliki, the seat of the Diocese.

Bishop Chukwu was appointed Bishop of Abakaliki in 2021 and served until his death. 

During his tenure, he also held national responsibilities as Assistant Secretary-General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, a role involving administrative coordination within the Catholic Church in Nigeria.

Church authorities say his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from clergy and lay faithful, many of whom have described him as a committed pastor and administrator.

The Diocese has invited the public to attend the funeral rites and pay their respects.

Bishop Chukwu’s death marks a transition for the Catholic Church in Ebonyi State and across Nigeria, where he held both diocesan and national responsibilities.

The Diocese said it remains guided by the Christian belief in the resurrection as it mourns one of its senior clergy.