The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has reported that at least 24 people lost their lives following a recent attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, a figure that differs from an earlier police report which stated four casualties.
Speaking during a press briefing in Yauri on Thursday, the Diocese’s Director of Social Communications, Rev. Fr. Matthew Stephen Kabirat, explained that the incident took place on Easter Sunday around 5:00 p.m., when suspected terrorists stormed the community.
He noted that those affected included individuals from different religious backgrounds—Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers—and confirmed that the Diocese has compiled a list of the victims.
According to him, the attackers destroyed several properties, including St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the residence of the catechist, a mosque, shops, and multiple homes. The violence also spread to nearby communities such as Binuwa and Kalkame, where markets, the emir’s residence, and other structures were damaged.
Kabirat added that the attackers mainly targeted men, especially youths, and that the violence continued into the following day, forcing many residents to flee.
The Diocese revealed it is currently sheltering about 491 internally displaced persons at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri. He emphasized that the victims are in urgent need of food, clean water, healthcare, and proper shelter, noting that the Church has begun distributing relief materials despite limited resources.
He called on the Federal Government, Kebbi State Government, humanitarian bodies, and Nigerians to provide immediate assistance to prevent a worsening humanitarian situation. He also urged President Bola Tinubu and Governor Nasir Idris to take decisive steps to restore security and help displaced residents return home safely.
Kabirat further stressed the importance of long-term security measures, community rehabilitation, and sustained support for victims, while calling for justice and lasting peace.
FULL STATEMENT
Source: Channels TV
