Catholic Priest Passes Away While Engaging In Tennis Activity In Anambra

The Catholic Diocese of Awka, Anambra State, is in mourning following the sudden passing of one of its priests, Reverend Father Anthony Udogu, who died on Monday morning while playing lawn tennis.

Father Udogu, who was the parish priest of St. Francis Parish, Awka, and the dean of Awka Il Deanery at the time of his death, was born on December 24, 1964, and was ordained on August 19, 1995. He passed away on May 19, 2025.

The diocese confirmed the news of his death in a brief statement issued on Tuesday by Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubisi, the diocesan chancellor at the Diocesan Catholic Secretariat, Awka.

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

The statement explained that Father Udogu collapsed while playing tennis and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he was declared dead.

“Until his demise, he was the parish priest of St. Francis Parish, Awka, and dean of Awka II Deanery,” the statement continued.

The diocese expressed condolences to his family, parishioners, and all those grieving his untimely death. “Please note that funeral arrangements will be announced soon. May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu rest in the bosom of the Lord, Amen,” the statement concluded.