A Catholic priest in Enugu Rev. Fr. Joachim Cabanyes has died from coronavirus (COVID-19) complications, the diocese announced on Saturday.
Fr. Cabanyes died at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) isolation centre, according to a statement by Rev. Fr. Nkemjika Igweshi, Secretary to the Bishop of Enugu Diocese Most Rev. Callistus Onaga.
Igweshi said that Fr. Cabanyes was a Spanish priest of the Opus Dei Prelature who worked in the diocese and had served the Nigerian church for about 28 years.
“He was such a nice, easy-going, cordial, generous, prayerful, and dedicated pastor.
“He hailed from Spain, but loved our people so much and always attended our diocesan functions.
“His body has just been laid to rest, following the NCDC guidelines.
“Please as we pray for his peaceful repose, let us know that COVID-19 is real and we will do well to observe all the necessary health precautions and safety measures,’’ he said.
Igweshi, who is also the Chaplain of St. Lucy Chaplaincy, Emene, near Enugu, prayed for the repose of Fr. Cabanyes’ soul.
