From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom has condoled the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese and the entire Catholic community in the state over the demise of one of its foremost priests, Reverend Father Michael Murphy.
Revd. Murphy was reported dead on Monday, November 28, 2022, in Makurdi, the Benue capital, after a brief illness at the age of 94 years.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Nathaniel Ikyur, Ortom recalled that Murphy who is the longest-serving Catholic Priest in Benue state, recently, celebrated his 60th year as a priest.
In the condolence message addressed to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Most Revd. Wilfred Anagbe, the Governor noted the exploits of the deceased priest in evangelism and how he turned things around for good.
He described the late Rev Murphy as an exceptional servant of God who preached salvation and impacted positively everywhere he served.
Ortom recalled the support and contributions of the late Priest to the people and government of the state through his charity works for Internally Displaced Persons, (IDPs), especially during violent attacks on citizens of the state by herdsmen.
He stated that Rev Murphy was a great soldier of Christ who would stop at nothing to convey the message of salvation to the people no matter the odds.
“Rev Murphy was a unique priest. He was calm but blunt and frank to a fault. He upheld the sanctity of truth at all times. He craved for a peaceful society where justice, fairness and equity should be the ground norm”, the Governor stated.
He added, “His exit at this time is painful, but we are consoled that Rev Murphy’s legacy of selfless service to mankind especially to the poor and the vulnerable will remain evergreen.”
The governor prayed that God grant him eternal rest.