Army refutes attack on Sokoto Catholic cathedral, Kukah’s home

The Nigerian Army has refuted claims circulating on social media about an attack on the residence of Bishop Matthew Kukah and the Sokoto Catholic Cathedral.

In a statement issued by Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 8 Division in Sokoto, the Army described the Facebook report as false and misleading.

“The attention of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has been drawn to a misleading social media post.

“The post falsely reported an armed attack on the residence of Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Bishop of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, as well as the Sokoto Catholic Cathedral.

“We categorically debunk these unfounded claims as there was no such attack in Sokoto State,” the statement read.

The Army emphasized that both the bishop’s residence and the cathedral remain secure, adding that Bishop Kukah is currently carrying out his Easter duties without any disruption.

It also reassured residents that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a peaceful Easter celebration across the state.

The Army noted that it is working closely with other security agencies to maintain safety and stability.

In a related response, the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto also dismissed the report as entirely false.

According to a statement by the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Pascal Salifu, the video linked to the claim began circulating after the killing of Deborah Yakubu in May 2022.

“This is the work of persons committed to causing havoc in society. We wish to inform the general public that the information is totally false. The Bishop’s residence, the Cathedral, and the Catholic Pastoral Centre in Sokoto remain safe, intact and fully operational,” the statement said.

The Diocese also shared Bishop Kukah’s Easter message, wishing residents a joyful and grace-filled celebration, and expressed appreciation to the military and other security agencies for their prompt response to the spread of the false report.