Awka, Anambra State, was thrown into mourning on Tuesday as Reverend Father Anthony Udogu, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, tragically collapsed and died during a lawn tennis match.
The Diocese confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubuisi. “With faith in the resurrection of the Lord, we announce the passing of our brother priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Udogu, whose sudden death occurred in the early hours of today,” the statement read.
According to the Diocese, Fr. Udogu slumped while playing tennis at a local facility and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite immediate medical intervention, he could not be revived.
Until his death, the late cleric served as Parish Priest of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Awka, and Dean of Awka Deanery II. He was widely celebrated for his devout pastoral leadership, commitment to spiritual growth, and active role in community development initiatives.
The Diocese extended condolences to his family, parishioners, and the broader community, pledging to release burial arrangements in the coming days. “May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu find eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement concluded.
