Nigerian Catholic Priest Slumps and Dies During Walk in the United States
The Catholic community is mourning the sudden loss of Rev. Fr. Michael Oli, a Nigerian priest who passed away in the United States. The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 26, 2026, while Fr. Oli was taking a walk.
Diocese Confirms the Sad News
The Catholic Diocese of Awka officially confirmed the priest's death in a statement released on Friday, March 27. The statement, signed by Chancellor Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubisi, revealed that Fr. Oli served as the Administrator of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Faith, South Dakota, until his untimely demise.
Fr. Oli was ordained on August 23, 2008, dedicating over 17 years to his pastoral duties. The diocese expressed condolences, stating, “The funeral arrangement will be announced soon. May the soul of Rev. Fr. Michael Oli rest in peace, Amen.”
Autopsy Ordered to Determine Cause of Death
Bishop Scott Bullock of the Rapid City Diocese in Western South Dakota provided further details on the incident. He confirmed that the Deputy Sheriff of Meade County has ordered an autopsy to ascertain the exact cause of death.
In his statement, Bishop Bullock wrote, “With confidence in the Resurrection of the Lord, I write to inform you of the sudden death this morning, March 26, 2026, of our brother Fr. Michael Oli, Pastor of St Joseph in Faith, St. Joseph in Mud Butte, and St. Anthony in Red Owl.”
He added, “I have been in communication with the Deputy Sheriff of Meade County, who has ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death. At this point, we do not know about the cause of death, just that he hadn’t been feeling well.”
Community Response and Memorial Plans
In line with Catholic tradition, Bishop Bullock has invited all priests serving in the diocese to offer three Masses for the repose of Fr. Oli's soul. He concluded, “Arrangements are pending. Eternal rest grant unto him and let perpetual light shine upon him.”
The sudden passing of Rev. Fr. Michael Oli has left a void in both the Nigerian and American Catholic communities, as they await further details from the ongoing investigation.
