The Catholic community and indeed all of Nigeria mourn the passing of Archbishop Emeritus Patrick Ebosele Ekpu, a man whose life was a testament to unwavering faith, service, and dedication. He will be laid to rest on Thursday, August 22, 2024, following a 10 a.m. funeral mass at Holy Cross Cathedral, Mission Road, Benin City. As we reflect on his remarkable life, we recognize the profound impact he made on the Church and the wider community.
Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu was born on October 26, 1931, in Uromi, a town in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. His early life was marked by a deep connection to the faith that would come to define his entire existence. On December 16, 1942, at the tender age of 11, he moved from Esan to Benin City, setting the stage for his lifelong journey of spiritual growth and leadership.
Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu received the sacrament of baptism on June 12, 1946, a significant milestone that marked the official beginning of his spiritual journey. His commitment to the Church was evident early on, as he pursued his calling with dedication. On January 20, 1950, he began his religious education at the Minor Seminary in Benin City, where he laid the foundations for his future in the priesthood.
Continuing his studies, Archbishop Patrick Ekpu began his training at the Major Seminary in Benin City on September 1, 1955. His thirst for theological knowledge and spiritual growth led him to further his education at the Major Seminary in Ibadan in February 1957, where he deepened his understanding of the Church’s teachings and prepared himself for greater responsibilities.
On January 27, 1963, he was ordained as a deacon, marking a significant step in his ecclesiastical journey. Just a few months later, on July 7, 1963, he was ordained as a priest, beginning a ministry that would span over five decades. His leadership qualities and dedication to the faith were soon recognized, and on November 21, 1971, he was appointed as Coadjutor Bishop, a role that prepared him to take on even greater leadership within the Church.
On July 5, 1973, he became the Substantive Bishop of Benin, officially taking on the mantle of leadership in the Diocese. Archbishop Ekpu was not only a spiritual leader but also a visionary who sought to make a lasting impact on the Church and its members. In April 1975, he founded the Society of St. Monica (SSM), an organization focused on the spiritual and social development of women within the Church, demonstrating his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
His contributions to the Church extended beyond spiritual guidance. On May 9, 1991, he promulgated the decree for the erection of the Knighthood of St. Paul, an order that strengthened the involvement of laypeople in the Church’s mission and activities. This move was emblematic of his belief in the importance of a vibrant and engaged laity.
Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu’s influence continued to grow, and on March 26, 1994, he was elevated to the position of Archbishop of Benin. This new role came with the responsibility of overseeing the Archdiocese with wisdom and compassion, a task he undertook with great zeal. On June 29, 1994, he received the pallium, a symbol of his authority as an Archbishop, and was formally installed in this position on July 23, 1994.
One of his most significant contributions to the Church was his role in the creation of new dioceses, expanding the reach and impact of the Catholic Church in Nigeria. On December 2, 2002, he played a key role in the creation of the Auchi Diocese, and on December 14, 2005, the Uromi Diocese was established, further extending the Church’s presence in Edo State.
After decades of devoted service, Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu retired on December 21, 2006, assuming the title of Archbishop Emeritus of Benin. His retirement marked the end of an era, but his influence and legacy continued to resonate within the Church and the broader community. On August 6, 2024, he passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich legacy of faith, leadership, and service.
As we prepare to lay him to rest, we do so with gratitude for a life lived in unwavering service to God and humanity. Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu’s contributions to the Church, including the founding of the Society of St. Monica and the creation of new dioceses, will be remembered for generations to come. His life and work stand as a testament to the power of faith and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to the service of others.
