A somber atmosphere enveloped the Catholic community in Anambra State on Tuesday following the sudden death of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, who slumped and died while playing lawn tennis.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, sent shockwaves across Awka, where the late cleric served as the Parish Priest of St. Francis of Assisi Parish and Dean of Awka Deanery II.
Confirming the development in an official statement, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubuisi, described the death as “a painful loss to the church and the community.”
> “With faith in the resurrection of the Lord, the Catholic Diocese of Awka announces the demise of our brother priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Udogu, whose sudden death occurred in the early hours of today,” the statement read.
According to the Diocese, Fr. Udogu collapsed while playing tennis and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. All efforts to resuscitate him proved abortive.
The statement noted that until his passing, the deceased was admired for his deep commitment to pastoral duties, his leadership within the deanery, and his dedication to community development initiatives.
The Diocese extended its condolences to Fr. Udogu’s family, parishioners, and all those affected by the loss, assuring that details of his funeral rites would be announced in due course.
“May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu rest in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement concluded.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
