A member of the House of Representatives, Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, has joined the global Christian community in mourning the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

In a condolence message released on Tuesday, Onuakalusi described the late Pope as a moral compass for humanity and a symbol of hope, humility, and compassion in an increasingly divided world.

The lawmaker who represents Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency II of Lagos State said the Pope’s death, which occurred on Easter Monday, a day revered in Christianity for the resurrection of Christ, holds deep spiritual symbolism and marks the end of an era in the Catholic Church.

“Pope Francis was not just a spiritual leader to over 1.3 billion Catholics around the world. He was a global voice for justice, peace, and compassion,” Onuakalusi stated.

“His teachings and actions transcended religious boundaries. He stood with the poor, gave a voice to the voiceless, and reminded the world of the importance of kindness and mercy.

“His Holiness brought the Church closer to the people. He challenged inequality, called for unity among nations, and pushed for interfaith dialogue in a way that few religious leaders have done in modern history.”

Onuakalusi noted that his constituents in Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II, many of whom are devout Catholics, deeply admired Pope Francis’ values and found inspiration in his messages of peace and inclusivity.

He recalled the Pope’s major encyclicals, Laudato Si’, which focused on environmental responsibility, and Fratelli Tutti, which emphasised human fraternity, as some of his most impactful legacies.

While extending his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the Vatican, and Catholics around the world, Onuakalusi prayed that the Church would find strength and unity in this moment of grief and that Pope Francis’ legacy would continue to guide the faithful and inspire future generations.