Tears Flow as Priest’s Sunday Journey Ends in Tragedy

A wave of mourning has swept through the Catholic Diocese of Minna and beyond following the tragic death of Reverend Father James Omeh, who passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, after a bridge collapsed while he was en route to celebrate Mass.

The heartbreaking incident was brought to light by X (formerly Twitter) user, Ugochukwu Ugokwe, who narrated how the priest braved the rain to serve his parishioners, only to meet his untimely end.

According to Ugokwe’s post, Rev. Fr. Omeh had set out early that Sunday morning despite the heavy rainfall. Determined not to let the weather hinder worshippers from attending Mass, he drove through the rain toward his parish. However, while attempting to cross a bridge, the structure suddenly gave way, plunging his vehicle into a river.

The priest reportedly did not survive the accident.

Ugokwe’s emotional post reads in part:

“It was raining yesterday and since it was a Sunday, he didn’t want the rain to deprive his parishioners the opportunity to attend Mass. So, he set out for Mass under the rain and on the way, the bridge he was crossing on caved in and his vehicle fell into the river. Sadly, the priest didn’t survive it.

He died in active service to God and humanity. May his soul find rest in the Lord.”

See screenshot of his post: 

The news has sparked an outpouring of grief online, with many praising Rev. Fr. Omeh’s unwavering dedication to his spiritual duty, even in the face of dangerous conditions.

The Diocese of Minna has yet to release an official statement as of the time of filing this report. However, tributes continue to pour in, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by both the local church community and Nigerians who never met him but were touched by his sacrifice.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.

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