From Joseph Uchenna, Makurdi
The Catholic Diocese of Gboko in Benue State has announced the indefinite closure of all its institutions in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, and the withdrawal of all pastoral agents following repeated attacks, arson and destruction of church properties.
Vandeikya is the home of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
In a pastoral letter and decree dated October 12, 2026, the Bishop of Gboko Diocese, Most Rev. William Avenya, explained that the decision followed years of hostility, including the burning of St. Winifred Secondary School hostels on four occasions – October 28, 2025, May 10, 2026, May 15, 2026 and October 11, 2026.
The Bishop also, said other incidence like persistent burglary at St. Winifred Parish, repeated criminal attacks on St. Thomas Hospital, and hooliganism during the reopening of the hospital on June 21, 2024, when some persons openly declared they no longer wanted Reverend Sisters to work in the community.
He intimated that the diocese had explored dialogue with traditional rulers, elders, civil authorities and security agencies without securing any lasting peace and safety guarantees.
Consequently, the diocese ordered the closure of St. Winifred Secondary School, St. Thomas Hospital including Salus Mind Care Centre and Hospital Chaplaincy, St. Winifred Nursery and Primary School, and St. Winifred Parish, all in Ihugh.
Avenya also directed the withdrawal of all priests, consecrated persons, catechists, teachers, medical and administrative staff serving under the diocese in Ihugh.
He said students would be assisted to continue their education in other Catholic schools, while patients of St. Thomas Hospital would be referred to other health facilities, maintaining that affected staff would be redeployed with justice and charity.
The Bishop expressed gratitude to priests, religious and lay workers who served in Ihugh, noting they did so with courage at great personal cost.
While describing the decision as painful but necessary, Avenya said opportunities are still open for return should there be genuine repentance, restitution and credible assurances of safety.
He also declared October 23, 2026 as a day of prayer and fasting for reconciliation and urged parishes to pray for peace in Ihugh.
