The Catholic Diocese of Awka, Anambra State, has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of one of its priests, Reverend Father Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, May 19, 2025, after collapsing while playing lawn tennis.
Until his passing, Rev. Fr. Udogu served as the Parish Priest of St. Francis Parish, Awka, and the Dean of Awka II Deanery. He was born on December 24, 1964, and was ordained a priest on August 19, 1995.
The news of his passing was shared in a brief press release on Tuesday by the Diocesan Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubisi.
The statement read: “With faith in the resurrection of the dead, the Catholic Diocese of Awka announces the demise of our brother priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu, whose sudden death occurred in the early hours of Monday, May 19.”
“He slumped while playing lawn tennis and was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital. All efforts to save his life proved abortive. Until his demise, he was the Parish Priest of St. Francis Parish Awka and Dean of Awka II Deanery.”
The Diocese extended heartfelt condolences to his family, parishioners, and all who mourn his loss. Funeral arrangements, according to the statement, will be announced in due course.
“May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu rest in the bosom of the Lord. Amen.”