By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode is in deep mourning following the announcement of the transition of Very Rev. Fr. John Ashinwo, whose death occurred in the early hours of today, Monday, February 23, 2026.

Fr. Ashinwo became ill since Thursday evening and was later diagnosed of High Blood Pressure which led to cerebral hemorrhage. He died at UCH Ibadan. Until his passing, Fr. Ashinwo served as the Parish Priest of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Ikija, where he was a pillar of the local community. His death has sent shockwaves across the Diocese, where he was widely known as a dedicated shepherd and a compassionate administrator. He has previously worked in many parishes and many schools as Principal of Sacred Heart Catholic College, Ijebu-Ode and Christ the King Catholic College, Odolewu.

A Life of Service and Dual Expertise

Born on December 9, 1966, Fr. John’s journey to the priesthood began at St. Peter and Paul Major Seminary, Bodija, where he earned Bachelor’s Degrees in Philosophy and Theology. Uniquely, he combined his spiritual calling with technical skill, holding an NCE in Building and Technical Drawing from the Federal College of Education (FCE), Akoka.

Since his ordination on July 6, 2001, Fr. Ashinwo held several high-responsibility roles within the Diocese:

• Chaplain: Knights of St. Mulumba (KSM).
• Diocesan Coordinator: Migrants and Refugees.
• Parish Priest: St. Patrick Catholic Church, Ikija.

The Legacy of “St. John”

A son of St. Peter Catholic Parish, Ijebu-Igbo, Fr. John was famously described by parishioners and colleagues alike as exceptionally humble and friendly. His reputation for holiness and an unwavering readiness to assist anyone in need, regardless of their status, earned him the affectionate nickname “St. John” among the laity and clergy.

The Bishop of thee Diocese; Most Rev. Francis O. Adesina said of Fr. Ashinwo, “Though God’s will is supreme but on Fr. John’s case, God’s will is a huge cross for us to carry at the start of the Lenten season in 2026. May His grace be sufficient for all of us and may Fr. John (our brother) be received into the company of the saints.”

“He didn’t just preach the Gospel; he wore it in his humility. To many of us, he was already a living saint,” whispered a distraught parishioner from Ikija this morning.

The Chancellor of the Diocese; Very Rev. Fr. Albert Igbodipe expressed profound grief over the loss of a “great priest” who served with distinction for nearly 25 years. While the Diocese mourns, there is a collective call for prayers for the repose of his soul and for the fortitude of his biological and spiritual families to bear this irreparable loss.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Chancery in the coming days.