Rev. Fr. Uche Ukor, a Catholic priest with Onitsha Archdiocese, Anambra State, on Wednesday, slumped and died during a novelty match.

The priest before his demise was also the Director of the Diocese media arm, publishers of Trinitas Newspaper.

It was gathered that the match held in neighbouring Asaba, Delta State capital, was between priests of Onitsha Diocese and Issele Uku Diocese of the Catholic Church.

A source within the Onitsha Diocese who spoke withNews Expressconfirmed Fr. Ukor’s death, saying: “He slumped on the pitch, breathing his last almost immediately.

“He wasn’t even playing. He was their coach. I’ve been in shock since a mutual friend called me last night to inform me of his demise.”

It was, however, learnt that the late priest had been battling with High Blood Pressure issues lately.

He was said to be in high spirits on Wednesday afternoon when he left Onitsha for Asaba to participate in the football match.

A reporter withTrinitas, Mr. John Anulumadu, said that he spoke to Ukor before he left for Asaba and even after his arrival to the neighbouring state, and there was no sign that he was very ill, not to talk of being close to dying.

“It’s hard to believe Rev. Fr. Ukoh is gone. I have devastated since I heard the news. Very sad but we can’t question God,” Anulumadu said.