Tragedy as Catholic Priest Slumps, Dies While Playing Tennis

• The Catholic Diocese of Awka in Anambra state was thrown into mourning following the death of a priest
• Reverend Father Anthony Udogu slumped and died while playing lawn tennis on Monday, May 19, 2025
• The Diocesan Chancellor, Rev Fr Charles Ndubuisi, announced the tragic incident, stating that funeral arrangements will be announced soon

Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada has over 8 years of experience covering metro, government policy, and international issues

Awka, Anambra state - A Catholic priest, Reverend Father Anthony Udogu slumped and died while playing lawn tennis at the premises of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Awka, Anambra state capital.

Father Udogu was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, unfortunately, all efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful.

As reported by Vanguard, the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev Fr Charles Ndubuisi, disclosed this in an official statement on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

“With faith in the resurrection of the Lord, the Catholic Diocese of Awka announces the demise of our brother priest, Rev Fr Anthony Udogu, whose sudden death occurred in the early hours of today (Monday) May 19.”

The deceased was the Parish Priest of St Francis of Assisi, Awka, and the Dean of Awka Deanery II.

Fr Udogu was widely respected for his leadership, dedication to pastoral service, and commitment to community development.

According to The Punch, he was born on December 24, 1964, was ordained on August 19, 1995, and died on May 19, 2025.

The Catholic Diocese of Awka condoled with the family, parishioners, and all those who mourn his death.

“Please note that the funeral arrangement will be announced soon. May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu rest in the bosom of the Lord, Amen"

Tragedy as former minister Olubolade slumps, dies

Recall that a former Bayelsa state's military administrator, Captain Caleb Olubolade (rtd), reportedly slumped and died.

Olubolade had also served a Nigeria's minister in three different capacities under the administration of former president Goodluck Jonathan.

The late military chief, who was appointed as the pioneer administrator of the newly created Bayelsa, was a foundation member of the defunct AC and later defected to the PDP.

Hotelier slumps, dies at wife’s 60th birthday thanksgiving

Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that the celebration turned into mourning as the hotelier slumped and died at wife’s 60th birthday thanksgiving in Lagos.

The tragic incident occurred at Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Iyanu, Odemuyiwa District Headquarters, Egbeda.

The event was later cancelled, and guests were seen leaving the venue of the reception in disbelief.

Source: Legit.ng