Tragedy As Catholic Priest Dies While Playing Tennis In Anambra

The Catholic Diocese of Awka, Anambra State, has announced the demise of its priest, Reverend Father Anthony Udogu.

Naijaonpoint reports that in a short press statement released on Tuesday by the Diocesan Chancellor, Diocesan Catholic Secretariat, Awka, Charles Ndubisi, disclosed that Udogu died in the early hours of Monday, May 19, 2025 while playing lawn tennis.

He said the Catholic Diocese of Awka condoles with the family, parishioners and all those who mourn his death.

The deceased, who was born on December 24, 1964 and ordained on August 19, 1995, was the Parish Priest of St. Francis Parish, Awka and Dean of Awka Il Deanery until his sudden death.

The statement read, “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.

“He slumped while playing lawn tennis, and was quickly rushed to the nearby hospital.

“All efforts to save his life proved abortive. Until his demise, he was the Parish Priest of St. Francis Parish Awka and Dean of Awka Il Deanery.

“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.”