Tragedy struck at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Boji-Boji Agbor, in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, as the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, reportedly slumped and died while delivering a homily during the New Year’s Eve Mass.
The disturbing incident occurred in the presence of worshippers, leaving the congregation stunned as the 63-year-old cleric collapsed mid-homily and was later confirmed dead.
Until his sudden passing, Fr. Chukwuma served as the Regional Vicar of the Agbor Region in the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku.
He was widely known for his dedication to pastoral service and leadership within the diocese.
The Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku has officially announced his death and released details of his burial arrangements.
The late priest hailed from Akumazi-Umuocha in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement signed by the Director of Communications of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Uganwa, the Diocese said:
“With total resignation to the will of God, the Bishop, priests, religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku announce the call to glory of Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephen Chukwuma, which took place on Wednesday, 31st December, 2025.
“Until his death, he was the Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, and Regional Vicar of the Agbor Region.”
The Diocese further announced the burial programme for the late priest. According to the statement, a Vigil Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, by 5:00 p.m.
The Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Issele-Uku, by 10:00 a.m., after which he will be laid to rest at the Priests’ Cemetery, Issele-Uku.
The sudden death has continued to generate grief and tributes from parishioners, clergy, and faithful across Delta State and beyond, as the Catholic community mourns the loss of a devoted priest who died while serving at the altar.
