Clergy, dignitaries gather for Kwara Bishop Atoyebi’s funeral
The Catholic community in Kwara state gathered to bid farewell to Most Reverend Ayo-Maria Atoyebi, OP, Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Ilorin, who passed away earlier this month.
Atoyebi died on March 8,2025, at the age of 80 years after a brief illness.
The funeral Mass, held at Saint Joseph Cathedral, Taiwo-Isale, Ilorin, Kwara state capital, on Friday 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 unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, and social justice.
Delivering the homily during the burial service, Most Reverend Alfred Adewale-Martins, Archbishop of Lagos Diocese of the Catholic Church, emphasized the importance of unity and collective purpose, urging attendees to honor the late bishop’s legacy by fostering stronger community ties.
Archbishop Martins recalled Bishop Atoyebi’s tireless efforts in promoting harmony beyond the Church, describing him as a leader whose advocacy for social justice and humanitarian causes left a profound 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 extended beyond religious duties, as he actively championed the welfare of marginalized communities”, they said.
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 deeply ingrained in the Catholic Church in Nigeria, leaving behind an indelible mark on those he served.
