By Paschal Norbert
ENUGU, MAY 5, 2025 (CISA) — Seven Capuchin friars, members of the Custody of St. Francis and St. Clare of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin in Nigeria, were killed in a fatal road accident on May 3, 2025, while traveling from Enugu State to Cross River State.
The deaths were confirmed by the Custos, Br. John-Kennedy Anyanwu, OFM Cap., in an official statement issued from the Capuchin Friary in Enugu on May 4.
According to the announcement, thirteen friars had departed the Ridgeway Community in Enugu State en route to Obudu in Cross River State when they were involved in the tragic accident. The crash claimed the lives of seven friars, while six others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The injured brothers have since been transferred back to Enugu for medical treatment.
“It is with deep sorrow but in the hope of the resurrection that we announce the death of our brothers,” Br Anyanwu stated.
The deceased have been identified as Br Somadina Ibe-Ojuludu, OFM Cap., Br Chinedu Nwachukwu, OFM Cap., Br Marcel Ezenwafor, OFM Cap., Br Gerald Nwogueze, OFM Cap., Br Kingsley Nwosu, OFM Cap., Br Wilfred Aleke, OFM Cap., and Br Chukwudi Obueze, OFM Cap.
In a heartfelt appeal to the Christian community, Br Anyanwu called on the faithful to join the Capuchin family in praying for the peaceful repose of the departed brothers.
“We entrust their souls to the merciful love of God,” he said, adding that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
The tragic loss has cast a somber cloud over the Nigerian Capuchin community and the world, as friars and faithful alike now unite in mourning, prayer, and solidarity.
