The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has again raised concern over the worsening security situation in Kebbi State, revealing that 24 people were killed in a violent Easter Sunday attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area.
The attack, according to the Diocese, is part of a growing wave of violence affecting several border communities between Kebbi and Niger states. In the days leading up to the Easter incident, suspected bandits had also launched coordinated night raids on nearby villages such as Gebe, Kawara, and Kalkami, burning homes and forcing residents to flee.
Security sources believe the attackers operate from hideouts within the Wawa Forest area in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that joint security teams made up of tactical units, military personnel, marine police, and local vigilantes have been deployed to restore calm in the affected areas.
In a statement issued in Yauri, the Diocese said armed men stormed Debe village around 5 p.m. on April 5 and carried out hours of brutal attacks that left widespread destruction. It also clarified that 24 people were killed, correcting earlier police reports that put the figure at four.
The Church stressed that the victims came from different religious backgrounds, including Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, describing the incident as a tragedy that affects humanity as a whole rather than any specific faith.
During the attack, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a mosque, residential houses, and shops were set on fire, with reports indicating that mostly men and young people were targeted.
The violence also spread to neighbouring communities such as Binuwa and Kalkame, where markets and even the emir’s residence were reportedly affected.
Following the attacks, hundreds of residents fled their homes. The Diocese said about 491 displaced persons are currently taking refuge at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri, adding that urgent humanitarian support is needed as food, water, medical care, and shelter are in short supply.
The Church called on both the Federal Government and the Kebbi State Government to take swift action to restore security and enable displaced families to return home safely. It also appealed to humanitarian organisations and the international community to intervene, warning that the crisis could worsen if left unaddressed.
It further lamented that fear has taken hold of many communities, with residents unable to bury their dead or rebuild their lives in peace, describing the situation as increasingly dire.
