Catholic Diocese shuts four institutions in Benue, withdraws priests 

Diocese Issues Directive for Withdrawal Amid Security Concerns

The Most Rev. William A. Avenya, Bishop of the Diocese, has issued a directive mandating the withdrawal of priests, religious personnel, and pastoral workers from the community in light of ongoing security threats and a pattern of violence. The directive, which includes a complete suspension of activities, took effect on October 12, 2026, as detailed in a pastoral letter and decree co-signed by Rev. Fr. Marcellinus Wende, the Diocesan Chancellor.

The bishop cited multiple incidents of violence, including the repeated arson of student hostels at St. Winifred Secondary School on October 28, 2025, May 10, May 15, and October 11, 2026. Additional concerns noted in the decree include burglaries at St. Winifred Parish and various criminal activities at St. Thomas Hospital. One particular incident involving members of the Ihugh community occurred during the reopening of St. Thomas Hospital on June 21, 2024, when demonstrators called for the removal of the Reverend Sisters.

Bishop Avenya characterized these events as part of a troubling trend of hostility towards Church-owned properties, contributing to fear and uncertainty among those who rely on these institutions. He indicated that the Diocese had previously attempted to resolve tensions through dialogue with community leaders, traditional rulers, and government officials. Despite these efforts, Bishop Avenya noted that peace and security necessary for operational safety remained elusive.

Consequently, the decree emphasizes that the Church can no longer risk the safety of its personnel and service beneficiaries. Under the terms of the directive, all clergy, including parish priests, assistant priests, chaplains, and other church workers assigned to Ihugh, are to withdraw from their roles. Additionally, consecrated persons, catechists, pastoral workers, and lay mission partners are also affected.

Staff members employed by the Diocese, both in educational and medical capacities, will be reassigned according to diocesan protocols. The decree also stipulates that no one may return to their former roles or engage in ministry on behalf of the Diocese without the bishop’s written authorization.

Further instructions include securing diocesan property, transferring parish registers and archives to the Diocesan Archives, and relocating the Blessed Sacrament and other sacred items to safe locations under the oversight of the Vicar General and the Diocesan Chancery.

In response to the withdrawal, the Diocese intends to mitigate the impact on students, patients, and affected workers. Efforts will be made to assist students from St. Winifred Secondary School and St. Winifred Nursery and Primary School in continuing their education at other Catholic institutions in the Diocese. Patients at St. Thomas Hospital will be referred to alternative healthcare facilities, prioritizing those in urgent need of medical attention.

The Diocese has assured employees that their welfare will be considered in accordance with Church teachings on labor dignity. Bishop Avenya has called upon the residents of Ihugh, along with community leaders, traditional rulers, and government officials, to collaborate in restoring peace and ensuring accountability for the violent acts.

He emphasized that this decision stems not from animosity but from a necessity to ensure the safety of all involved. The Diocese holds no ill will toward innocent community members, he assured. Further updates regarding the situation are anticipated from the Director of Catholic Education Services.

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