The Catholic Diocese of Awka has announced the sudden death of one of its senior priests, Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, May 19, 2025.
According to a statement released by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubisi, the priest slumped while playing lawn tennis and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. However, all efforts to revive him proved abortive.
The statement reads in part: “With faith in the resurrection of the dead, the Catholic Diocese of Awka announces the demise of our brother priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu, whose sudden death occurred at the early hours of today. He slumped while playing lawn tennis, and was quickly rushed to the nearby hospital. All effort to save his life proved abortive.”
Until his death, Rev. Fr. Udogu was the Parish Priest of St. Francis Parish, Awka, and the Dean of Awka II Deanery. Born on December 24, 1964, he was ordained a Catholic priest on August 19, 1995.
The Diocese expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to his family, parishioners, and all who mourn his passing. It also noted that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
“May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu rest in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement concluded.
