Catholic priests in Benue State have condemned the destruction of St. Paul’s Parish, Aye-Twar, in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, and the occupation of 26 other outstations by armed herdsmen.
The priests, under the Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests’ Association (NCDPA), Katsina-Ala Diocese, described the incident as a direct assault on the Church, government, security agencies and traditional institutions.
In a statement issued in Makurdi, the diocesan chairman, Rev. Fr. Samuel Fila, said the latest attack, which occurred on August 11, left the parish church, secretariat, priest’s residence, vehicles and other valuables destroyed. He added that the entire Agu Centre community has been deserted out of fear of further attacks.
Fr. Fila noted that the attacks, allegedly launched from neighbouring Taraba State, had long forced the parish priest to relocate while skeletal pastoral activities continued.
He described the violence as “a premeditated, well-coordinated effort aimed at genocidal cleansing and territorial domination,” not mere farmer-herder clashes.
The priests accused the government and security agencies of inaction and called for urgent intervention by federal and state authorities, law enforcement agencies, and Miyetti Allah representatives.
They demanded the rebuilding of the parish, restitution for damages, and a joint investigation by Benue and Taraba governments.
They further urged the international community to intervene, while calling for permanent security posts in the area and construction of access roads to enable swift response to future attacks.
The priests expressed solidarity with the Bishop of Katsina-Ala Diocese, Most Rev. Isaac Dugu, and assured parishioners of St. Paul’s, Aye-Twar, of their support.