The Catholic Diocese of Awka in Anambra State has announced the sudden death of Reverend Father Anthony Udogu, who passed away early Monday morning while playing lawn tennis.

Father Udogu was the Parish Priest of St. Francis Parish, Awka, and Dean of Awka Il Deanery at the time of his death. Born on December 24, 1964, he was ordained on August 19, 1995, and died on May 19, 2025.

The diocese made the announcement in a brief statement issued Tuesday by Reverend Father Charles Ndubisi, Diocesan Chancellor of the Catholic Secretariat in Awka.

The statement said, “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.”

The diocese extended condolences to his family, parishioners, and all who mourn his passing, adding, “Please note that the funeral arrangements will be announced soon. May the soul of Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaemeka Udogu rest in the bosom of the Lord, Amen.”