The Parish Priest of St. Paul Parish, Ibuzo Amokwe, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Godfrey Oleri, has issued a heartfelt public apology following a confrontation with members of the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO) during their annual August meeting.
The incident, which occurred on August 8 at St. Mary Station, Idedu, an outstation of the parish, sparked outrage after a video capturing the altercation went viral on social media. The footage showed a physical clash between the priest and some CWO members, leaving parishioners shocked and concerned.
In a video statement obtained by Daily Gazette on Wednesday, Fr. Oleri expressed deep regret, describing his actions as “regrettable and uncharacteristic.”
“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, acknowledging that his behaviour fell short of the values and discipline expected of a Catholic priest.
The priest explained that the misunderstanding stemmed from disagreements over the venue for the CWO’s annual August meeting but stressed that violence 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.
Witnesses described the incident as chaotic, noting that parishioners had to intervene to de-escalate the confrontation. The backlash prompted calls from both clergy and laity for accountability and reconciliation, with many urging the Catholic Diocese of Enugu to step in.
Fr. Oleri reaffirmed his commitment to reconciliation, forgiveness, and pastoral duties, calling on all parties involved to move forward in peace.
The apology has been widely welcomed as a step toward healing and restoring unity within the parish community.
