ASABA/Nigeria: The death of Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Mario Ozele has prompted an emotional tribute from Nkem Nwaeke, who recalled the late Catholic priest’s friendship, pastoral guidance and personal sacrifice during his marriage ceremony in 2001.
Nwaeke, a journalist, described Fr. Ozele as a father, mentor, counsellor and friend whose warmth and compassion left a lasting impression on his family.
In the tribute, Nwaeke said his relationship with the priest began during his early years in journalism, when Fr. Ozele welcomed him with friendship and affection, without the formal distance often associated with the clergy.
He recalled the priest’s cheerful disposition and the sense of peace he brought to their encounters, describing his laughter and personal warmth as qualities that made him deeply memorable.
Nwaeke also recounted how Fr. Ozele helped him and his wife prepare for their marriage within the Catholic faith. According to him, the priest conducted their marriage classes at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Warri, and guided them through the preparations for their wedding.
He identified May 19, 2001, as a particularly significant date, recalling that Fr. Ozele set aside an important engagement abroad to officiate their solemnisation of Holy Matrimony.
“For me, that was a sacrifice I will never forget,” Nwaeke said, explaining that the priest’s decision demonstrated his commitment to people and the relationships he cherished.
The journalist further recalled a more recent encounter involving his family, when Fr. Ozele served as Special Celebrant at the 2025 Harvest and Thanksgiving Mass of St. Agnes Catholic Church, Wuye, Abuja.
Although Nwaeke was not present at the celebration, he said the priest welcomed his wife and children and spoke to the congregation about the family’s significance to him.
He described the occasion as a cherished memory and a final expression of the priest’s fatherly affection towards his family.
Reflecting on Fr. Ozele’s character, Nwaeke said the priest had a way of teaching, correcting and supporting people through his actions, adding that his influence extended beyond his formal responsibilities in the Church.
“My wife and I mourn a father, a mentor, a counsellor and a friend,” he said.
The Catholic Diocese of Warri announced the death of Fr. Ozele on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. Until his death, he served as Episcopal Vicar of the Ughelli Pastoral Region and Parish Priest of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ughelli.
The Diocese urged priests, religious and lay faithful to pray for the late priest, his immediate family and the Church, while stating that funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course.
In his tribute, Nwaeke joined the Catholic community in commending Fr. Ozele’s soul to the mercy of God, expressing hope in the Christian promise of eternal life.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him,” he prayed.
Nkem Nwaeke is a communicant and Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
