Security crisis forces Gboko Catholic Diocese to shut down institutions in Ihugh community.
The Catholic Diocese of Gboko has ordered the immediate and complete closure of all its vital religious and educational institutions located within the Ihugh community.
This drastic decision follows a wave of repeated attacks, arsons, and persistent security threats directed at church-owned properties since the beginning of 2024, according to information published by punchng.
The affected area holds notable significance as the hometown of Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, who previously served as a Catholic priest under the same diocese prior to his suspension.
Gboko Diocese shuts down Ihugh institutions
The sweeping directive, issued by the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, affects several key establishments in the Ihugh community situated in the Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.
The affected facilities include St Winifred Girls Secondary School, St Thomas Hospital, St Winifred Nursery and Primary School, and the local St Winifred Parish, alongside the withdrawal of all pastoral agents.
An official letter detailing the closure was signed by the Bishop of the diocese, Most Rev William A. Avenya, and the diocesan chancellor, Rev Fr Marcellinus Wende.
Repeated attacks and arson incidents
Church authorities stated that the temporary shutdown became unavoidable following a systemic pattern of hostility and destruction targeting their properties over a prolonged period.
Specific incidents highlighted in the directive include the repeated burning down of student hostels at St Winifred Secondary School on October 28, 2025, and multiple dates in May and October 2026.
Additionally, the diocese cited consistent burglaries at the parish, criminal incidents at St Thomas Hospital, and hostile protests by residents chanting slogans against church workers.
Dialogue efforts and community engagement
Before arriving at the decision to shut down operations, church leaders engaged extensively with traditional rulers, elders, and the host community to seek a peaceful resolution.
Grievances were formally presented to relevant civil and security authorities, but these sincere efforts failed to yield the necessary guarantees for lasting safety.
Bishop William A. Avenya confirmed the suspension of activities, noting that the diocese has done everything possible to protect lives and property without receiving adequate security assurances.
Relocation plans for students and patients
To mitigate the disruption caused by the closure, the diocese announced structured alternative arrangements for affected individuals and staff members.
Pupils and students will receive active assistance to continue their education in other Catholic schools operating within the wider diocese.
Patients currently receiving care at St Thomas Hospital will be properly referred and handed over to alternative health facilities with priority given to urgent medical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Catholic Diocese of Gboko close its institutions in Ihugh?
The diocese closed its schools, parish, and hospital due to repeated attacks, arson incidents targeting student hostels, burglaries, and local hostility since 2024.
Which institutions are affected by the closure in Benue State?
The affected facilities are St Winifred Girls Secondary School, St Winifred Nursery and Primary School, St Thomas Hospital, and St Winifred Parish in Ihugh.
Who signed the directive ordering the closure of the church facilities?
The official letter was signed by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, Most Rev William A. Avenya, and diocesan chancellor Rev Fr Marcellinus Wende.
What is the connection between Ihugh and Governor Hyacinth Alia?
Ihugh is the hometown of Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, who was a Catholic priest under the Gboko Diocese before his suspension in 2023.
