Yet-to-be-identified gunmen have attacked the Rev. Fr. Angus Frazer Memorial High School, located at a suburb of Makurdi, the Benue State capital where they shot the security man on duty in an attempt to kidnap students of the college.
Director of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Rev. Fr. Moses Iorapuu while disclosing this, said the attackers gained access to the school and were shooting indiscriminately before they were repelled by officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) guarding the school.
The Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Revd. Wilfred Anagbe, who visited the school ordered its closure, fearing that another attack and kidnapping of the students may reoccur.
Bishop Anagbe decried incessant attacks on schools belonging to the Catholic mission in the state, lamenting that most of the schools and hospitals built by the Diocese in communities across the state have been destroyed during sustained herdsmen attacks on farmers.
Fr. Iorapuu, who confirmed the attack to newsmen in a telephone conversation, explained that the closure was to enable the authorities investigate the invasion.
According to him, “Sad news from one of our schools. An attack was carried out by people suspected to be unidentified gunmen last night at Father Angus Frazer Memorial High School.
“The Principal, Fr. Emmanuel Ogwuche and the students are all safe, except for a security officer who was badly injured in the attack, and is receiving treatment in the hospital,” Fr. Iorapuu said.
While condemning the spate of insecurity in the schools, the Communication Director described the incessant attacks as alarming, lamenting that Benue farmers especially, those within Makurdi metropolis have fled their farms this year for fear of attack.
He described as worrisome, the recent killing of some people in communities around Makurdi after they were kidnapped and their corpses recovered in Adeke.
Fr. Iorapuu however thanked God for intervening in the situation, while calling on security agencies to do their best to nip insecurity in the bud.
“We appreciate the professionalism of the civil defence officers who provide security at the school.
These unidentified gunmen tried to raise the ante in their attacks’ strategies on the state, from villagers, farmers, and worshippers to students.
“The school is managed by the Via Christi Society, so the Bishop had a meeting with the leadership of the school, the education team of the diocese, and some members of the consultors, where a decision was taken by the church to be proactive and protect the lives of our children,” he said.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, denied knowledge of the incident.
Benue State Police Command to review their communication protocols and ensure that information flows smoothly within the department.
Establishing clear reporting mechanisms and enhancing transparency can help improve public perception of the police force and strengthen their ability to address security challenges in the region.
