A local community was stunned and saddened by the passing of Rev. Fr. Steve Chukwuma, a prominent Catholic priest, who collapsed and died during his New Year homily at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Agbor on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Fr. Steve Chukwuma, the Parish Priest of St. Joseph Catholic Church, was speaking to his congregation at the morning Mass when he suddenly dropped.
Immediate attempts to revive him proved unsuccessful, leaving parishioners and church staff in deep mourning.
Born on June 5, 1962, in Agbor, Nigeria, Fr. Chukwuma devoted his life to the service of the Catholic Church and the spiritual guidance of his community.
He was ordained on August 18, 1990, by Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Gbuji, beginning a ministry that would span more than three decades.
Throughout his career, Fr. Chukwuma was known for his unwavering commitment to pastoral care and community service.
Parishioners remember him as a compassionate leader who touched many lives through his sermons, guidance, and acts of kindness.
His sudden death has left a profound void in the community, with many expressing disbelief at losing a spiritual father on the first day of the new year.
Tributes have come in from all over Nigeria and one of the common themes is the faithfulness of the church leader and his great legacy
Several people went on the internet to expose the influence of the priest on their lives and they referred him as a trustworthy institution and a source of light in times of darkness
The Catholic Diocese of Agbor is pitching the need for prayers for the Lords rest to his soul and solace to the family and community of the bereaved
Upon reflecting on his life, many have extended his service in the church to be only a small part of the bigger picture of him being the mentor, the counselor, and the friend of innumerable people
Fr. Steve Chukwumas passing is a reminder of how fragile life is and faith is the only thing that can really save us.
The whole community is grieving but also remembering with great appreciation his many years of devoted service and the comfort he brought to people’s lives. May he rest in peace.
By PMNews