Portrait of the late Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, Delta State.

The beloved Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist, Agbor, Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, has passed away during Mass.

The Catholic community in Delta State is in mourning following the sudden passing of Rev. Fr. (Barr.) Stephen Chukwuma, who died while ministering to his congregation.

The tragedy struck during the New Year Eve Mass on December 31, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Boji-Boji Agbor, located in Ika North LGA. 

Worshippers were left in shock when the 63-year-old Parish Priest collapsed on the pulpit while delivering his homily.

A Life of Devotion and Service

Until his death, Rev. Fr. Chukwuma served as the Regional Vicar of the Agbor Region within the Issele-Uku Diocese. Born on June 5, 1962, in Agbor, his journey in the priesthood began as an altar server in the very parish he would eventually lead.

His academic and spiritual formation was extensive:

  • Early Education: Attended Ika Grammar School, Agbor.
  • Seminary Training: Studied at St. Paul’s Missionary Seminary, Iperu-Remo, and SS Peter and Paul Major Seminary, Bodija.
  • Ordination: Ordained in 1990 by Bishop Anthony Gbuji.

Throughout his 35-year priesthood, he served in various capacities, including roles at St. Brigid’s, Asaba, and as the Rector of St. Felix Minor Seminary, Ejeme-Aniogor.

Portrait of the late Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, Delta State.

Burial Arrangements Announced

The Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, through a statement signed by the Director of Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Uganwa, expressed deep resignation to the will of God while announcing the final rites.

The scheduled burial arrangements are as follows:

Event Date Time Location
Vigil Mass Tuesday, Jan 27, 2026 5:00 PM St. John the Baptist, Agbor
Funeral Mass Wednesday, Jan 28, 2026 10:00 AM St. Paul Cathedral, Issele-Uku
Interment Wednesday, Jan 28, 2026 After Mass Priests' Cemetery, Issele-Uku
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The late priest, a native of Akumazi-Umuocha in Ika North East, leaves behind a legacy of faith and administrative leadership that touched many lives across Delta State.