Lagos Archdiocese Mourns as Veteran Communications Director Msgr. Gabriel Osu Passes at 71

LAGOS — The Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos is in mourning following the transition of one of its most prominent and vocal clerics, Very Rev. Msgr. Gabriel Sunsay Osu. The veteran priest, widely recognized for his decades of service as the Archdiocesan Director of Social Communications, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026.

​His death was officially announced in a circular signed by the Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins. The Archbishop described the loss with a heavy heart, while urging the faithful to remain steadfast in the hope of the resurrection.

​A Life of Apostolic Service

​Born on September 5, 1954, Msgr. Osu was a native of Ogbego Quarters in Ubulu-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State. His journey in the priesthood began over four decades ago with his ordination on December 5, 1981.

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​Throughout his distinguished career, Msgr. Osu served as a spiritual shepherd in several landmark parishes and educational institutions across the Lagos Archdiocese. His pastoral footprints include:

• ​Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos (Mother Church of the Archdiocese)
• ​St. Gregory’s College, South-West Ikoyi (Where he served as a formator and administrator)
• ​St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Oshodi
• ​St. Paul Catholic Church, Ebute-Metta
• ​Our Lady Star of the Sea, Northern Foreshore, Lekki (His final place of residence)

​The Voice of the Archdiocese

​Beyond the pulpit, Msgr. Osu was perhaps best known to the Nigerian public as the “voice” of the Catholic Church in Lagos. As the long-standing Director of Social Communications, he was a bridge between the Church and the media, frequently intervening in national discourse on ethics, governance, and social justice. His weekly columns and media appearances earned him a reputation as a fearless but diplomatic commentator on the state of the nation.

​Funeral Rites Pending

​Archbishop Martins has called on the clergy, religious, and lay faithful to offer prayers for the repose of the soul of the departed Monsignor. “May God grant him eternal rest and a place of happiness, light, and peace among the saints,” the circular stated.

​While the Archdiocese has noted that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course, tributes have already begun pouring in from the media industry and the Christian community, honoring a man many described as a “priest of the people.”