Priest dies in family scuffle in Yagoua.

The priest is reported to have died on September 5, following a family dispute that escalated into a mass confrontation. The information is contained in a statement released by the Bishop of the Diocese of Yagoua, His Lordship Barthélémy Yaouda.

According to the statement, the sudden departure of Abbé Abel Ana has sent shockwaves through the local Catholic community and the church as a whole.

The Bishop expressed deep sorrow over the incident and he invited the faithful to pray for the repose of the soul of Fr. Ana He also called for unity among faithful during this difficult time.

The death of Fr. ANA, the Bishop said, is not only a personal loss for his family but also a profound tragedy for the entire Catholic community in Yagoua. 

The deceased, the Bishop said, was a respected parish priest. He played a critical role in fostering faith and guiding parishioners, particularly in Djougoumta, where he served at Notre Dame de la Paix (Our Lady of Peace) parish.

“His passing leaves a significant void in the spiritual life of the community,” the note read.

The Bishop of Yagoua, in his statement, called for a moment of peace and reflection, while reminding the faithful that Fr. Ana’s death should serve as a moment of spiritual introspection. 

He also called on the community to avoid further violence and to focus on maintaining unity.

Though the exact details surrounding the family dispute remain unclear, sources are quoted as having said the misunderstanding started as a private issue before degenerating. 

When things went out of hand, several other individuals are said to have entered the fray, further worsening the situation of things. The body of the priest is said to have been ferried to a mortuary pending burial arrangements.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post issue N0:3225 of Tuesday September 10, 2024