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The parish priest at the center of a recent altercation with members of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) in Enugu State has issued a public apology, describing his actions as “regrettable and uncharacteristic.”
Rev. Fr. Dr. Godfrey Oleri, the Parish Priest of St. Paul Parish, Ibuzo Amokwe, made the apology in a video address
The priest was responding to the incident that occurred on August 8 at St. Mary Station, Idedu, an outstation of St. Paul Parish in Udi Local Government Area.
In the video, a visibly remorseful Fr. Oleri acknowledged the incident and expressed deep regret over the confrontation that broke out during the CWO’s annual August meeting.
He admitted that his conduct did not reflect the values and discipline expected of a Catholic priest.
“I sincerely apologise for what happened. It was a moment of weakness, and I take full responsibility for my actions. It should not have happened,” he said.
The priest noted that misunderstandings surrounding the venue of the women’s meeting escalated tensions but emphasized that violence and confrontation should never have been part of the outcome.
“As a spiritual leader, I am called to be a symbol of peace and unity. I fell short of that calling, and I am deeply sorry to the CWO members, the parish and the entire Catholic community,” he added.
The incident, which was caught on camera and widely shared on social media, showed a physical confrontation between Fr. Oleri and several CWO members.
Witnesses described the event as chaotic, with parishioners intervening to de-escalate the situation.
Following the backlash, there were calls from both the clergy and the laity for an apology and resolution, with many urging the Catholic Diocese of Enugu to investigate.
Fr. Oleri reaffirmed his commitment to reconciliation and pastoral duties, calling on all parties involved to forgive and move forward in peace.
