***Describes Father Omeh’s Passing as a Painful Blow to Peace, Unity Efforts
Niger State Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Reverend Father James Omeh, Parish Priest of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Gulu, in Lapai Local Government Area, describing it as a painful blow to the state’s peace and interfaith harmony efforts.
In a condolence statement issued in Minna on Monday by his Special Adviser on Communication, Media and Strategy, Jonathan Vatsa, Governor Bago commiserated with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Catholic Church, and the grieving families, saying the death of Father Omeh was not only devastating but untimely.
According to reports, the tragedy occurred on Saturday, May 24, 2025, after a night of torrential rain caused the collapse of a bridge along the Lapai-Gulu Road.
Reverend Father Omeh, who was returning to his parish, was forced to turn back when his vehicle was caught in floodwaters and swept away.
A female passenger with him also perished in the incident.
Their bodies were later recovered with the help of local residents and the Sarkin Ruwa (King of Water) from a nearby village.
Governor Bago described the late priest as a symbol of peace and compassion, noting that his leadership within the CAN and the Catholic community had contributed significantly to religious tolerance and unity in the region.
“Father James Omeh was more than a priest; he was a bridge-builder, a man of faith who dedicated his life to fostering peaceful coexistence.
His tragic death is a monumental loss not just to the Church, but to the entire state,” the governor said.
He recalled Father Omeh’s recent peace mission visits to key figures in Lapai, including the Emir of Lapai, the Divisional Police Officer, and the Local Government Chairman, where he led CAN executives to reaffirm their commitment to harmony and mutual respect across faiths.
Governor Bago also used the opportunity to draw urgent attention to the deplorable state of the Lapai-Gulu Road, which has become a source of fear and frustration for residents and travelers. He called for swift intervention to prevent further tragedies.
“On behalf of the government and people of Niger State, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Catholic Diocese, and the family of the deceased. May the soul of Reverend Father James Omeh rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of peace and love continue to inspire us all,” the statement concluded.
