By Matthew Denis
The Bishop of Ilorin Catholic Diocese, Rev (Dr) Ayo-Maria Atoyebi OP has resigned his pastoral care after clocking 75 years of age for retirement from active church obligations in accordance with the Canon Law.
In an online statement on Tuesday, the Holy Father, Pope Francis was said to have acknowledged the resignation of Bishop Ayo-Maria from the pastoral care of the Ilorin Diocese.
The statement added that the retiring Bishop is succeeded by Msgr. Paul Adegboyega Olawoore who is currently coadjutor Bishop of the same Diocese.
Recall that a Diocesan Bishop who has attained the age of 75 is requested to offer his resignation from office to the Supreme Pontiff.
Meanwhile, members of the Catholic Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CAMPAN), Ilorin Diocese have appreciated God the grace bestowed on Bishop Ayo-Maria throughout his service to the Diocese.
The Director of Social Communications of Ilorin Diocese, Rev. Fr. Christopher Atoyebi stressed that God deserved all the praises for his infinite mercies and for the blessings showered on the church during the tenure of Bishop Ayo-Maria.
He also prayed for abundant blessings and protection for Bishop Paul Olawoore.
Also speaking, the President of Ilorin chapter of CAMPAN, Mr. James Yemi Adurotoye called for cooperation of all Catholic faithful with the new Bishop in piloting the affairs of the Diocese to greater heights.
He stressed that CAMPAN members will continue to play a vital role in ensuring that issues and events relating to the church are propagated.
