Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most Rev. Ernest Anezichukwu Obodo, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, as the Apostolic Administrator of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki to fill the vacancy created by the death of Most Rev. Peter Nworie Chukwu.

Chukwu died on Friday last week from health-related issues.

The decree by the Pope appointing Obodo as Apostolic Administrator of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki was signed by Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN).

“Please find here the Decree appointing the Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Abakaliki.

“May the Lord grant him the grace he needs to fulfil his responsibilities. Amen,” Banjo said.

Meanwhile, Catholic faithful in Ebonyi State have declared a nine-day novena Mass across parishes in the Diocese of Abakaliki for the late Bishop Chukwu.

The nine-day novena Mass was announced in all the parishes.

“As we mourn the passing into glory of our bishop, the parish priest invites us to a 9-day Novena Mass for Bishop Peter CHUKWU.

“It begins every day with Rosary and Mass by 6 am daily in every parish church compound.

“May Bishop Peter CHUKWU rest in peace. Amen,” the announcement said. (The Sun)