Warri Diocese Buries Late Bishop John Okeghene Afareha Amidst High Security and Traffic Congestion at Sacred Heart Cathedral

 In a solemn ceremony held yesterday, 9th February 2026, the Catholic Diocese of Warri bid farewell to their late bishop, John Okeghene Afareha, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral. The burial was marked by an overwhelming presence of both security personnel and mourners, leading to significant traffic congestion in the area. The late bishop, who passed away recently, was honored by clergy, dignitaries, and the local community in a poignant service filled with prayers and tributes.

**Key Facts:** 1. Bishop John Okeghene Afareha served as the bishop of the Warri Diocese for over two decades, known for his dedication to the church and the community. 2. The funeral service took place at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, a significant religious landmark in the region. 3. Security measures were heightened due to the large turnout of mourners and the importance of the event. 4. Traffic congestion around the cathedral caused delays for both attendees and passersby. 5. The solemn ceremony included prayers, eulogies, and a final farewell to the late bishop, highlighting his contributions and legacy.

**Supporting Details:** The atmosphere at the Sacred Heart Cathedral yesterday was somber yet filled with reverence as the Warri Diocese gathered to pay their respects to the late Bishop John Okeghene Afareha. The funeral procession began early in the morning, with clergy members leading the way followed by the casket carrying the bishop's remains.

Security personnel, both uniformed and undercover, were deployed in large numbers to ensure the safety of all attendees and maintain order amidst the expected crowds. The heightened security presence was a testament to the significance of Bishop Afareha's role in the community and the need to safeguard the proceedings.

As the funeral service progressed inside the cathedral, outside, the streets leading to the Sacred Heart Cathedral were clogged with vehicles as mourners and well-wishers attempted to find parking spaces. The traffic congestion not only caused delays but also added to the emotional intensity of the moment, as people patiently made their way to bid their final goodbyes to the beloved bishop.

Inside the cathedral, the service was a blend of solemnity and celebration of Bishop Afareha's life and legacy. Eulogies from fellow clergy members, community leaders, and family members painted a vivid picture of a man dedicated to his faith and his flock. The bishop's contributions to the church and his tireless efforts in serving the community were highlighted, evoking both tears and smiles from those gathered.

Prayers were offered for the repose of Bishop Afareha's soul, and hymns filled the cathedral with a sense of peace and spirituality. The final moments of the service were marked by a procession to the burial site, where the bishop was laid to rest in a ceremony filled with tradition and reverence.

As the sun began to set on the day, the Warri Diocese bid a heartfelt farewell to Bishop John Okeghene Afareha, a man whose legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. The traffic may have dispersed, and the security measures relaxed, but the memory of the late bishop and his contributions to the community will continue to resonate for years to come.