Formal Announcement:

It is with great sadness but with faith in the resurrection of our Lord that we announce the passing of our beloved Bishop Emeritus Ayo-Maria Atoyebi OP who departed this life on 08-03-2025 at about 12:55pm.

Bishop Ayo-Maria served our Diocese with dedication, wisdom, and compassion from 1992 to 2019. During his tenure, he was a steadfast leader, a passionate advocate for peace and a devoted shepherd to his flock.

As Bishop Emeritus, he continued to serve our Diocese with grace and humility, offering guidance and counsel whenever needed.

We give thanks for his life, his ministry, and his unwavering commitment to our Lord and the Church.

May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us to live out our faith with joy, hope, and charity.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Please join us in praying for the repose of his soul and for the consolation of his family and loved ones.

May he be welcomed into the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. And may our Mother Mary Queen of the Apostles continue to intercede for him.

Rest in peace, dear Bishop Ayo-Maria Atoyebi (OP).

 

 +Most Rev. Anselm Pendo LAWANI

Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Ilorin