The Catholic Diocese of Gboko has ordered the immediate closure of four church-owned institutions in Ihugh community, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, following repeated attacks on its properties.
The affected institutions are St Winifred Girls Secondary School, St Winifred Nursery and Primary School, St Thomas Hospital and St Winifred Parish, all located in Ihugh, the home community of Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
The diocese has also ordered the withdrawal of its pastoral agents from the community.
The directive was contained in a letter signed by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, Most Rev. William Avenya, and the diocesan chancellor, Rev. Fr. Marcellinus Wende.
Titled “On the Temporary Closure of Catholic Institutions and the Withdrawal of Pastoral Agents from Ihugh,” the letter said the decision followed repeated attacks on church-owned facilities since last year.
The diocese cited the repeated burning of students’ hostels at St Winifred Secondary School, burglaries at St Winifred Parish and criminal incidents at St Thomas Hospital.
It also recalled an incident two years ago when residents reportedly protested against the continued presence of Reverend Sisters working at the hospital.
“These acts are identified as part of a systemic pattern of hostility and destruction directed at church-owned properties, alongside arson and harassment,” the letter said.
The diocese said the attacks had endangered the lives of students, teachers, hospital staff and other members of the community.
It added that it had held meetings with community members, traditional rulers and elders and presented its grievances to relevant civil and security authorities before deciding to suspend operations.
“Sadly, these sincere efforts have not yielded the peace, security and guarantees that the continued presence of our institutions requires,” the letter stated.
“We have done all that depends on us. The attacks have continued, and no assurance of lasting safety has been secured.”
Students, patients to receive alternative services
The diocese said it would help students of the affected primary and secondary schools continue their education at other Catholic schools within the diocese.
Patients receiving care at St Thomas Hospital would be referred to other health facilities, with arrangements to protect those requiring urgent medical attention.
It also pledged to treat affected staff fairly and in line with Church teachings on the dignity of labour.
When contacted by telephone, Bishop Avenya confirmed the directive, saying, “Yes, we have suspended activities there.
