The Catholic Diocese of Gboko has ordered the temporary closure of its schools, hospital and parish in Ihugh, Benue State, citing repeated attacks on its institutions.
The order affects St Winifred Girls Secondary School, St Winifred Nursery and Primary School, St Thomas Hospital and St Winifred Parish in the Vandeikya Local Government Area. Priests and other pastoral workers are also to withdraw from the community.
The diocese said it would help affected pupils and students continue their education in other Catholic schools where possible. Patients at St Thomas Hospital would be referred to other health facilities, with particular attention to those needing urgent care.
The directive is contained in a letter dated October 12, signed by Bishop William Avenya and diocesan chancellor Marcellinus Wende. Avenya confirmed the suspension of activities to Punch on Tuesday.
According to the letter, students’ hostels at St Winifred Secondary School were burned on October 28, 2025; May 10 and May 15, 2026; and October 11, 2026. The diocese also cited repeated burglaries at the parish and criminal incidents at the hospital.
The letter recalled protests during the hospital’s reopening on June 21, 2024, when some residents allegedly demanded that Reverend Sisters stop working in Ihugh. The diocese said meetings with community leaders, traditional rulers and civil and security authorities had not secured lasting safety.
Benue police spokesperson Aondogu Orchia told Premium Times that an investigation had begun and that no life was lost in the fire incident.
The diocese said the closure was not a permanent departure or a condemnation of innocent residents. It could reconsider returning if there were restitution and lasting assurances of safety for its personnel and properties.
Further arrangements for students would be provided by the Director of Catholic Education Services. The diocese also said affected staff would be treated in accordance with the Church’s teachings on the dignity of labour.
Sources: Punch, Premium Times
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