Governor Mutfwang Bid Farewell to Late Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo as His Body is Laid to Rest

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has paid glowing tribute to the late Reverend Father Polycarp Nengak Lubo, former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), whose remains were laid to rest after a solemn Requiem Mass at the St. John Vianney Minor Seminary compound in Barkin-Ladi, Plateau State.

Speaking at the funeral, Governor Mutfwang described Rev. Fr. Lubo as a "jolly good fellow", a humble servant of God who offered himself in service to humanity and the state. He noted that the priest's life was marked by deep commitment to unity, peace, and faith, and his passing is a painful loss not just to the church but to the entire Plateau community.

“I thank God for the life and times of Rev. Fr. Lubo, a man whose journey has brought us together today. He was a true servant of God, a cheerful soul who connected effortlessly with everyone. Yes, like every mortal, he had his flaws, but I can confidently say he served God faithfully and gave his best to Plateau State,” the Governor said.

He further revealed the shock of Fr. Lubo’s sudden demise, recalling their last conversation. “We spoke just a few days before his surgery, full of hope that he would pull through and return to his pastoral duties. But ultimately, God’s will prevails.”

Urging the congregation to reflect on the brevity of life, Governor Mutfwang said, “Like the Psalmist prayed, may we all learn to number our days and apply our hearts to wisdom. For it is appointed unto man once to die, and after that comes judgment. My prayer is that when my own time comes, I will stand before the throne of grace with a clear conscience.”

The Governor also commended Rev. Fr. Lubo’s remarkable efforts at promoting unity within the church through his leadership in CAN. He noted that the clergy’s passing should serve as a rallying call for the Church to rise above internal divisions and chart a collective path toward peace and development on the Plateau.

“When the Church gets it right, many of the challenges facing Plateau State will fade into history. Fr. Lubo labored for unity, now it is our turn to carry the torch. But true unity cannot co-exist with hypocrisy. For too long, we have lived as though we are enemies of ourselves. We betray and tear one another down. This must stop.”

Governor Mutfwang extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the Catholic Archbishop of Jos, Most Rev. Matthew Ishaya Audu, the larger Catholic family, and the Christian Association of Nigeria. He prayed for divine strength and comfort in this time of grief.

In his homily, Monsignor Cletus Gotan urged the faithful to draw closer to God, describing the late Fr. Lubo as a pillar of charity and a beacon of hope whose selfless life impacted many. “He has run his race and fought the good fight. Let us learn from his humility and service to the Church and humanity,” he said.