Catholic Mission Raises Concerns Over Killings, Mass Displacements In Kebbi

From : Ayodele Ajoge, Birnin-Kebbi 

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has said no fewer than 24 people were killed in the recent attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, contradicting an earlier police report that put the death toll at four.

Addressing journalists during a press briefing on Thursday in Yauri town, the Director of Social Communications of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Matthew Stephen Kabirat, said the attack occurred on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m., when suspected terrorists invaded the community.

According to him, the victims cut across Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, adding that the Diocese had documented the names of those killed.

Kabirat said the attackers also razed St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the catechist’s residence, a mosque, shops, and several houses in the community.

He added that the violence spread to neighbouring communities, including Binuwa and Kalkame, where markets, the emir’s residence, and several other structures were destroyed.

“The attackers specifically targeted men, particularly youths, and the assault continued into the following day, forcing many residents to flee for safety,” he said.

The Diocese further disclosed that it is currently providing shelter for 491 internally displaced persons at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri.

Kabirat said the displaced persons are in urgent need of food, clean water, medical care, and proper shelter, noting that the Diocese has already begun distributing relief materials despite limited resources.

He called on the Federal Government, Kebbi State Government, humanitarian organisations, and well-meaning Nigerians to urgently support the victims to prevent a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The Clergy urged Nigerians not to remain silent in the face of insecurity and injustice, warning that silence only emboldens perpetrators and allows violence to spread.