Our reporter
A Catholic clergyman, Very Rev. Fr. (Major) GC Oparaekwe (Rtd) has lost his life while settling misunderstanding between a couple under his parish.
The deceased, a native of Ulakwo in Imo state, but ordained for Umuahia Diocese, had gone to the couple’s home to settle the brawl on June 17, 2025 when the incident happened.
A source close to the family said the man had picked up an object to hit his wife during the quarrel, but ended up hitting it on the priest.
The cleric was rushed to hospital where he was certified dead after efforts by the doctor to revive him failed.
“The priest passed on 17th June 2025. He went to settle a misunderstanding of husband and wife in his Parish,” the source said.
“Unfortunately, the man picked up something to hit his wife during the settlement and ended up hitting the priest. He was rushed to hospital but couldn’t make it.
“Fr Goddy is from Ulakwo but ordained for Umuahia Diocese. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace,” he added.
Reactions have since trailed the incident with many blaming the deceased for his action.
“Interventions are good but wisely and divinely choose your interventions in quarrels,” a social media influencer said.
A veteran journalist, Chuks Emman said, “I object to a Rev. Fr. going to a Parishioner’s house to settle matrimonial disputes.
“He should have invited them to the parish house to settle the matter. Some of our priests are simply overdoing it.”
