The Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has condoled with the Catholic Diocese of Warri over the death of the Episcopal Vicar of the Ughelli Pastoral Region and Parish Priest of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ughelli, Very Rev. Fr Anthony Mario Ozele.
Ozele, who died at the age of 60, was described by Dafinone as a dedicated priest whose ministry, counsel and service to God and humanity touched many lives across Delta State.
In a condolence message, Dafinone said he was deeply saddened by the death of the clergyman, describing his passing as a painful loss to the Catholic Diocese of Warri, his parishioners and the wider community.
He said, “Fr Ozele was a committed priest who devoted his life to the service of the Church and the spiritual and social wellbeing of his flock.
“His years of pastoral service and leadership touched many lives, and his absence will undoubtedly be deeply felt by the Catholic faithful, his fellow priests and the wider community.”
The senator commiserated with the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, the clergy, religious leaders, parishioners and the entire Catholic community over the loss.
Dafinone also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased priest, as well as his friends, colleagues and all those who mourned his passing.
He urged the Catholic faithful to draw strength from the life of dedicated service lived by Ozele and the positive impact he made during his priestly ministry.
The senator prayed to God to grant the deceased eternal rest and give his family, the Diocese of Warri, parishioners, fellow priests and friends the strength to bear the loss.
He added, “May the legacy of Fr Anthony Mario Ozele continue to inspire faith, service and compassion in all who knew him.“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
