By TWE News Desk

Grief and tributes have poured in following the passing of the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State Chapter, Very Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, who died after a brief illness linked to injuries sustained in a recent accident.

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and the Northern leadership of CAN have both expressed deep sorrow over the death of the revered Catholic priest, describing it as a monumental loss to the Church, Plateau State, and the nation at large.

In a condolence message, Governor Mutfwang described Fr. Lubo as “a monumental loss to his immediate family, the Plateau State CAN family, and indeed the entire state and nation.”

He praised the priest’s unwavering commitment to God’s work, saying, “Fr. Lubo laboured tirelessly in the Lord’s vineyard, nurturing his flock and directing countless souls toward the Kingdom of God.”

Echoing the words of Apostle Paul in Philippians 1:21—“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”—the Governor described Fr. Lubo’s life as one of Christ-like service, generosity, and courage.

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang further paid tribute to the late cleric as “a respected voice of wisdom, a pillar of charity, and a symbol of hope whose selfless efforts in community development, humanitarian outreach, and interfaith dialogue strengthened our collective resolve for a peaceful Plateau.”

Similarly, the Northern CAN Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, described Fr. Lubo as a fearless and committed servant of God who stood for justice, peace, and the well-being of the oppressed.

He recalled the late priest’s words during the Plateau Peace Walk—“we deserve to live”—as a powerful expression of the pain and resilience of victims affected by violence and displacement across Plateau and other parts of Nigeria.

Hayab said Fr. Lubo was also celebrated for his efforts in fostering interfaith collaboration. He worked closely with Muslim leaders under the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development to promote polio immunization campaigns and other public health initiatives, serving as a bridge between faiths.

As treasurer of Northern CAN, he was known for his discipline, transparency, and strong leadership in managing the association’s finances, he added. 

Both Governor Mutfwang and Northern CAN noted that Fr. Lubo’s death has left a significant void in the Christian community. His humility, cheerfulness, and inclusive approach to pastoral work endeared him to many, particularly in his role as Parish Priest of St. William’s Catholic Church, Zawan.

On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his condolences to the Archbishop of Jos and the Catholic community, the Plateau State CAN leadership, the Presbyterium of the Archdiocese, the parishioners of St. William’s Parish, and Fr. Lubo’s immediate family.

Northern CAN also extended deep sympathies to the same communities and urged government and security agencies to honour the late priest’s legacy by redoubling efforts to protect lives and uphold justice across the nation.

Both statements concluded with prayers for divine consolation and the strength to bear this painful loss, affirming that Fr. Lubo’s legacy of faith, service, and peacebuilding will continue to inspire generations to come.