PRESS RELEASE | FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MOST REV. JOHN OKEOGHEME AFAREHA

Funeral Arrangements Announced for Bishop Emeritus John Okeoghene Afareha

Warri, Delta State - January 19, 2026 | The Catholic Diocese of Warri has formally announced funeral arrangements for its late Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who passed away earlier this month.

According to a statement issued by the Diocesan Secretariat and signed by the Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, the rites will begin with a Vigil Mass scheduled for Monday, February 9, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Warri.

The Funeral Mass will follow the next day, Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., also at the Sacred Heart Cathedral. The Diocese has directed that the liturgical color of vestment for the celebrations will be white, symbolizing resurrection and eternal life.

Condolence messages may be sent to the diocesan chancery via email at warridiocesanchancery@yahoo.com or through WhatsApp at +234-818-100-7869. Submissions are to be made no later than Friday, January 30, 2026.

In the announcement, Bishop Ewherido prayed for the eternal repose of Bishop Afareha, stating: “May the soul of Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha rest in perfect peace. Amen.”

See below the official statement as delivered: