A lot of us know already that the no-nonsense former Archbishop of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, has retired. But certainly not what his retirement plans are; as well as why. Anyway, in the Catholic church and according to my findings, it is mandatory for all bishops to step aside once they attain the age of 75. However, Okogie had to quit at 76 because he is a cardinal. Cardinals, by the way, retire from active service at 80. But he couldn’t because he has a health challenge he’s been battling for a long time – one of his legs is failing him.
In retirement, like I was again told by an impeccable source, the septuagenarian will move into a monastery in Sangotedo, Lekki, Lagos. While there, the respected man of God and one time President of Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN) will keep himself busy and warm by praying, resting and mentoring young priests and bishops. Meanwhile, Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos State has deservedly and magnanimously named the road where the monastery is sited after him. In case you do not know, Fashola’s wife, Abimbola is not only a Catholic but also a Dame in the church.