Sen. Adams Oshiomhole (APC–Edo) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Benin City, Most Rev. Augustine Akubueze, describing him as a courageous servant of God whose life was defined by truth, humility and selfless service.
In a condolence message issued on Friday by his Chief of Staff, Victor Oshioke, Oshiomhole said he received news of the cleric’s death with “shock and sadness.”
He said Archbishop Akubueze lived a life that faithfully reflected his episcopal motto, Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati (“That I May Bear Witness to the Truth”), noting that he remained a steadfast witness to the Gospel, a compassionate shepherd and a humble servant of God throughout his ministry.
According to the senator, the late archbishop’s simplicity, accessibility, gentleness and unwavering commitment to truth and justice earned him the admiration and respect of both Catholics and non-Catholics.
Oshiomhole recalled that Akubueze’s appointment as Archbishop of Benin City in 2011 coincided with his tenure as governor of Edo State, following the cleric’s distinguished service as Bishop of Uromi.
He noted that although the appointment initially attracted resistance, the archbishop remained resolute, trusting in God’s will and maintaining that a servant of God must faithfully answer wherever the Lord calls.
Reflecting on their interactions during his years as governor, Oshiomhole said he was consistently impressed by the late archbishop’s intellectual depth, profound spirituality, extensive pastoral experience and willingness to accommodate differing views.
“His counsel was measured, his convictions were principled, and his life was a testament to selfless service,” he said.
On behalf of his family and the people of Edo North Senatorial District, Oshiomhole extended his condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy and faithful of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Benin City, and the entire Catholic community.
He prayed for God to grant the late archbishop eternal rest, expressing confidence that his enduring legacy of truth, faith, humility and dedicated service would continue to inspire generations to come.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Archbishop Akubueze died on July 9, according to a statement signed by the Chancellor of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, Rev. Fr. Michael Oyanoafoh.
