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The Catholic Diocese of Gboko in Benue state Tuesday ordered the indefinite closure of four Catholic institutions in Ihugh, Vandeikya local government area of Benue state, following repeated attacks, arson and destruction of church properties.
The Diocese also ordered the withdrawal of all priests, consecrated persons, teachers, medical personnel and other staff serving in the affected institutions, with a directive that no one should return without the bishop’s written authorisation.
The bishop of the diocese, Most Rev. William Avenya, announced the decision in a pastoral letter and decree dated 12 October 2026, saying that the closure took effect on 12 October until further notice.
The affected institutions are St. Winifred Secondary School, St. Winifred Nursery and Primary School, St. Thomas Hospital, including Salus Mind Care Centre, and St. Winifred Parish.
The Bishop cited repeated burning of student hostels at St. Winifred Secondary School, alongside burglaries at St. Winifred Parish and criminal incidents at St. Thomas Hospital, as reasons for the decision.
He said the Diocese had engaged the host community, traditional rulers, elders and relevant civil and security authorities in efforts to restore peace, but the engagements had failed to guarantee lasting security.
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