Catholic community organises funeral mass for Bishop Ayo-Maria Atoyebi in Ilorin

The Catholic community in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Friday gathered to bid farewell to Most Reverend Ayo-Maria Atoyebi, Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Ilorin, who passed away earlier this month.

The funeral Mass, held at Saint Joseph Cathedral, Taiwo-Isale, Ilorin, the state capital, drew clergy, parishioners, and dignitaries who paid tribute to his decades of service to the Church and his contributions to faith, education, and community development.

The two-day solemn event began with tributes highlighting Bishop Atoyebi’s commitment to interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, and social justice.

Presiding over the burial service, the Archbishop of Lagos, Most Reverend Alfred Adewale Martins, emphasised the importance of unity and collective purpose, urging the congregation to honour the late bishop’s legacy by fostering stronger community ties.

Archbishop Martins recalled Bishop Atoyebi’s efforts in promoting harmony beyond the Church, describing him as a leader whose advocacy for social justice and humanitarian causes left a significant impact on the region.

Other clergy and parishioners shared memories of his humility, dedication to nurturing young priests, and guidance in spiritual growth.

The funeral mass featured multiple liturgical services led by distinguished clergy, including Most Reverend Anselm Pendo Lawani, Most Reverend Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin, and Most Reverend Lucius I. Ugorji.

Homilists such as Most Reverend Bulus Yohanna and Most Reverend John Akin Oyejola reflected on the late bishop’s lifelong commitment to spiritual leadership and his lasting influence on the Catholic Church in Nigeria.

Dignitaries in attendance included bishops and priests from across the country, many of whom spoke of Bishop Atoyebi’s role in strengthening Catholic education and uplifting the lives of the underprivileged.

His leadership, they noted, extended beyond religious duties, as he actively championed the welfare of marginalised communities.

As the final prayers were offered, emotions ran high among parishioners who had been touched by Bishop Atoyebi’s ministry.

His legacy of faith, compassion, and service to humanity remains ingrained in the Catholic Church in Nigeria, leaving behind an indelible mark on those he served.

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