Nigerian Catholic priest, Michael Oli, has died unexpectedly in the United States after reportedly collapsing during a routine walk.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 26, 2026, and has since been confirmed by the Catholic Diocese of Awka in an official statement released a day later.
Diocese Confirms Passing
According to the statement signed by the Chancellor of the diocese, Charles Ndubisi, the late cleric was serving as the Administrator of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Faith, South Dakota, at the time of his death.
Until his passing, Fr. Oli was actively ministering in South Dakota, where he oversaw multiple parishes, including congregations in Faith, Mud Butte, and Red Owl.
His death was also confirmed by Scott Bullock, Bishop of the Diocese of Rapid City, who described the development as a painful loss to the church community.
In a message addressed to clergy members, Bishop Bullock stated that Fr. Oli had not been feeling well prior to the incident but that the exact cause of death remains unknown.
Authorities in Meade County have initiated steps to determine the cause of death. According to Bishop Bullock, a deputy sheriff has ordered an autopsy to clarify the circumstances surrounding the priest’s sudden collapse.
“At this point, we do not know the cause of death,” the bishop noted, adding that further details would be provided once investigations are concluded.
A Life of Service
Fr. Oli was ordained into the priesthood on August 23, 2008, and dedicated years of his life to pastoral service both in Nigeria and abroad.
Colleagues and parishioners have described him as a committed and compassionate priest whose ministry touched many lives across different communities.
Call for Prayers and Funeral Plans
As part of Catholic tradition, Bishop Bullock has called on priests within the diocese to celebrate three Masses for the repose of Fr. Oli’s soul.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Mourning a Sudden Loss
The unexpected nature of his passing has left both Nigerian and American Catholic communities in mourning, as tributes continue to pour in for the late cleric.
His death marks the loss of a devoted servant of the Church whose impact will be remembered by those he ministered to
