By Jonathan Lois
The Member representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency II in the House of Representatives, Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, has joined the global Christian community in mourning the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.
In a condolence message issued by his media office, Hon. Onuakalusi described the late Pope as a moral compass for humanity and a symbol of hope, humility, and compassion in an increasingly divided world. He said the Pope’s death, which occurred on Easter Monday—a day revered in Christianity for the resurrection of Christ—holds deep spiritual symbolism and marks the end of an era in the Catholic Church.
“Pope Francis was not just a spiritual leader to over 1.3 billion Catholics around the world; he was a global voice for justice, peace, and compassion,” Onuakalusi stated. “His teachings and actions transcended religious boundaries. He stood with the poor, gave a voice to the voiceless, and reminded the world of the importance of kindness and mercy.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to assume the papacy. Known for his simple lifestyle, progressive views on social issues, and bold stance on climate change, he led the Catholic Church through a time of great change and global challenge.
Hon. Onuakalusi noted that his constituents in Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II—many of whom are devout Catholics—deeply admired Pope Francis’ values and found inspiration in his messages of peace and inclusivity.
“His Holiness brought the Church closer to the people,” the lawmaker said. “He challenged inequality, called for unity among nations, and pushed for interfaith dialogue in a way that few religious leaders have done in modern history.”
He recalled the Pope’s major encyclicals, Laudato Si’, which focused on environmental responsibility, and Fratelli Tutti, which emphasized human fraternity, as some of his most impactful legacies.
Onuakalusi extended his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the Vatican, and Catholics around the world. He prayed that the Church would find strength and unity in this moment of grief and that Pope Francis’ legacy would continue to guide the faithful and inspire future generations.
“May the soul of Pope Francis find eternal rest, and may his memory continue to challenge each of us to build a more loving, inclusive, and compassionate world,” he said.
The Vatican has yet to announce details of the funeral arrangements, but tributes have continued to pour in from leaders and religious figures across the globe.
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