The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Southeast Engagement, Barr. Chioma Nweze, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu, describing him as a steadfast defender of the Christian faith.

In a condolence message issued on Monday in Abakaliki, Barr. Nweze said she was devastated by the news of the Bishop’s death, noting that he lived a life fully devoted to God and humanity.

She described the late Bishop Chukwu as a committed servant of God whose life reflected deep faith, humility, and unwavering dedication to the spread of the Gospel.

According to her, his passing represents not only the loss of a spiritual leader but also of a moral compass and father figure to the faithful across the diocese and the wider Christian community.

Barr. Nweze further noted that the Bishop would be remembered as a man of vision, discipline, and uncommon patriotism, who laid a strong spiritual and administrative foundation for the Catholic faithful.

She said that upon his appointment as Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, he embraced the responsibility of providing direction, hope, and structure for the growth of the Church.

“With courage, foresight, and selflessness, he nurtured the expansion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ into the hinterlands,” she said.

She added that his humility in leadership, commitment to public service, and passion for unity and Church growth remain enduring legacies that will continue to inspire generations of Ebonyi people.

Barr. Nweze further noted that the story of the growth of the Catholic Church in the region cannot be told without acknowledging the sacrifices and leadership of the late Bishop Chukwu.

“We will miss him greatly. The bond he shared with everyone has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” she added.