The Catholic Diocese of Gboko has ordered the indefinite closure of four Catholic institutions in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, following repeated arson attacks, burglaries and alleged hostility towards Church personnel.
Bishop William Avenya, in a pastoral letter and decree dated October 12, 2026, said the decision was necessary to protect priests, religious personnel, students, teachers, medical workers and patients from further danger.
The affected institutions are St. Winifred’s Girls Secondary School, St. Winifred’s Nursery and Primary School, St. Thomas’ Hospital, including Salus Mind Care Centre, and St. Winifred’s Parish.
Bishop Avenya specifically cited the repeated burning of students’ hostels at St. Winifred’s Secondary School on October 28, 2025, May 10 and 15, 2026, and October 11, 2026, alongside persistent burglaries at the parish and criminal incidents at St. Thomas’ Hospital.
He also recalled an incident during the hospital’s reopening on June 21, 2024, when some residents allegedly displayed placards and chanted slogans demanding the withdrawal of Reverend Sisters from Ihugh.
Bishop Avenya said the Diocese had engaged community leaders, traditional rulers, elders and security authorities in search of a peaceful resolution, but the efforts had failed to secure lasting peace and safety guarantees.
“The Church cannot, in conscience, continue to expose her Priests, Consecrated Persons, Teachers, Medical personnel, Students and Patients to danger,” the Bishop declared.
Effective October 12, all pastoral agents and diocesan employees serving in the affected institutions are to withdraw, while students will be assisted to continue their education in other Catholic schools and hospital patients referred to alternative health facilities.
The Diocese, however, described the withdrawal as temporary in intent, saying a return would depend on genuine repentance, restitution, a firm commitment to peace and credible, lasting assurances of safety.
The Bishop called on community leaders, government and security agencies to restore peace and bring those responsible for the attacks to justice.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Pter Orchia, in confirming the October 11 incident said investigations have commenced.
