Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abuja (Agenzia Fides) – The Catholic Church of St. Mary in Katchuan Irruan, in the local government area of Boki, in northern Cross River State, southeastern Nigeria, was attacked and set on fire.
The attack occurred in the early morning hours of February 26, around 3:00 a.m. Despite the rapid response of the firefighters, which was able to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to neighboring buildings, the damage was considerable.
The flames caused significant damage to the church, including the tabernacle and several sacred objects. Two cars belonging to the parish priest, which were parked in front of the rectory, were also set ablaze. Police have launched a large-scale manhunt to arrest those responsible for the attack. According to initial investigations, the arsonists targeted and burned the archives stored in the church's sacristy. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 27/2/2026)
