Arua Bishop Odoki Threatens Excommunication for Ex-MP Atiku Over Funeral Remarks

The Bishop of Arua Diocese, Rt Rev Sabino Ocan Odoki, addressed the issue during the Chrism Mass at Ediofe Cathedral, a ceremony for blessing sacramental oils.

He criticized former Ayivu MP Bernard Atiku for statements made at the requiem and funeral masses of late Fr Angelo Matua in Kampala and Arua City. Odoki described Atiku’s words as devilish and contrary to church unity, declaring that Atiku had effectively excommunicated himself.

“He should never speak in any of our Christian prayers or gatherings until he repents and reconciles,” the bishop stated, giving him a six-month deadline. Priests in the diocese were instructed not to allow Atiku to address church events.

Fr Matua, parish priest of Nyio Catholic Parish in Ayivu West Division, Arua City, passed away on March 12 at Nsambya Hospital after intensive care and was buried on March 17 at Micu Parish.

Atiku, speaking as chairperson of the Central Organising Committee, reportedly mentioned strange attacks during Matua’s illness and urged prayers for the diocese amid recent priest losses.

Odoki dismissed material contributions, emphasizing faith over wealth, and suggested some gifts might come from dubious sources.

Atiku responded by deferring comment until after Easter due to fasting, denying wrongdoing and suggesting his call was for prayers to support the diocese and vocations.

Excommunication in the Arua Diocese echoes past incidents, like the 2019 case involving land disputes. Canon Law (Can. 1373) punishes public incitement against church authorities with interdict or other penalties.

Source: Daily Monitor