- Fredick Nzwili (OSV News)
Seven Capuchin Franciscan friars have lost their lives in a bus accident in Nigeria. The seven were among a group of 13 friars, all members of the Custody of St. Francis and St. Clare of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin in Nigeria, and were on their way to a spiritual retreat in the city of Obudu when their vehicle was involved in the accident, according to a statement released May 4.
Their bus, reportedly owned by the Enugu diocese, suffered a brake failure. "With deep sorrow, but with hope of resurrection, the Capuchin friars of the Nigerian Custody, we announce the death of some of our brothers," said Brother John Kennedy Anyanwu, custodian of the Order.
Six of the friars suffered injuries of varying degrees and are now receiving treatment in Enugu. The seven who died are Brothers Somadina Ibe-Ojuludu, Chinedu Nwachukwu, Marcel Ezenwafor, Gerald Nwogueze, Kingsley Nwosu, Wilfred Aleke and Chukwudi Obueze.
On the way to a spiritual retreat
The Capuchin friars were on a spiritual pilgrimage and were about to retire at a famous cattle ranch complex in Obudu under the guidance of a priest when the accident occurred.
"We entrust their souls to God's merciful love and invite all to join in praying for the happy repose of their souls. Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course," said Brother Anyanwu.
In Nigeria, the Capuchins, who serve as priests and brothers, work, among others, in soup kitchens and homeless shelters, orphanages, hospitals and prisons as chaplains.
Cross River State Local Government has expressed its condolences. "Our prayers and thoughts are with the victims' families and friends during this incredibly difficult time," Bassey Otu said in a statement.
145 priests kidnapped and 11 murdered in 10 years
The death of the Capuchin friars adds to the sorrow in the life of the Catholic Church in Nigeriawhich has suffered persecution by militias, bandits and Islamists affiliated with the Islamic State group. A total of 145 priests have been kidnapped and 11 killed between 2015 and May 2025, amid a growing wave of kidnappings of seminarians, priests and religious personnel.
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Fredrick Nzwili writes for OSV News from Nairobi, Kenya.
