Catholic Diocese Shuts Down Institutions in Benue over Repeated Attacks

The Catholic Diocese of Gboko in Benue State has shut down four institutions, including schools and a hospital, and withdrawn its pastoral agents due to repeated attacks, arson, and security concerns. According to reports from Premium Times Nigeria, Tribune Online, and Daily Post Nigeria, the diocese issued a directive to close the institutions in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State. The order, signed by Bishop William A. Avenya, also mandates the withdrawal of priests and religious sisters from the community. The diocese cited a series of attacks, arson, and alleged acts of hostility against its facilities as the reason for the closures. The move follows a pattern of similar attacks on Christian institutions in parts of Nigeria, raising concerns about religious tensions and the safety of religious minorities. While the diocese has not said when the facilities began operating, it is the latest in a string of attacks on Christian institutions in the region, highlighting the need for improved security and religious freedom in Nigeria.