By Rachel Kogi, CSN Media
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has described the late Chief Shepherd of Ilorin Diocese, Most Rev. Paul Adegboyega Olawoore as an amiable personality endowed with many sterling qualities.
Speaking in Ilorin during the funeral of Bishop Olawoore, through the Vice President of the CBCN, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, who represented the President, Most Rev. Augustine Akubueze, the prelates observed that Bishop Olawoore was very selfless and a man for others. They noted that the Bishop “witnessed to Christ with deep faith, ardent love and radiant joy”. “With his passing, we have lost a quiet, humble and refined gentleman; nay a faithful shepherd who served his flock with a great sense of compassion, diligence and commitment,” they said.
The chief shepherds further expressed their deep sentiments about their departed brother, stating that “he was a man of peace, who radiated calmness and harmony.” They recounted his firm stand and peaceful role in the hijab controversy in Kwara State, noting that it will never be forgotten. Additionally, the CBCN affirmed that it was a wonderful coincidence that this man of peace slept peacefully in the Lord on 1 January, the World Day of Peace.
Bishop Olawoore, who until his death was the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kwara State Chapter was described as one who was extra-ordinarily committed to fostering dialogue, unity, tolerance, mutual respect and mutual understanding among Christians. Incidentally, as a man who worked assiduously for unity among Christians, it was of great significance that he was laid to rest during the week of prayer for Christian unity.
The President of the Conference further admonished priests and lay faithful in Ilorin Diocese to personally renew their loyalty to the Holy Father, who is the visible foundation of unity in the Church and deserves love, respect and obedience from all Catholics. He prayed for God’s guidance and spirit of wisdom on the Pope, as he seeks to appoint a suitable successor for Bishop Olawoore. While thanking God for the gift of Bishop Olawoore’s life and ministry, they prayed for the repose of his soul.
The National Director of the Directorate of Social Communications, CSN, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh who was also at the funeral and a classmate of the late Bishop confirmed that Bishop Olawoore was always an elder in the class. He said he was a very gentleman and very maturely disposed.
