The Catholic Diocese of Gboko orders the immediate or effective closure of Church-run institutions in Ihugh, in Benue State, after repeated attacks on its facilities. Reports say the directive covers schools, a hospital, and a parish associated with the diocese’s operations in the community.
Outlets also state the diocese withdraws pastoral and institutional personnel from the affected sites. This includes priests and consecrated religious, as well as teachers and medical staff. Vanguard and other reports specify an implementation date of October 12, 2026, with closure to continue until further notice, while other coverage describes the shutdown as immediate.
The outlets cite reasons tied to security and safety concerns, including reports of arson and alleged hostility toward the diocese’s facilities and workers. The measures are framed as precautionary, with pastoral agents told to leave the area while the diocese assesses conditions. One report also links the location to the hometown of Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia, noting the action in that context, while others focus on the broader pattern of attacks and the Church’s response.
