A Catholic priest identified as Rev. Fr. Moses Fanem Ngugban and three parishioners in Agu Centre, Mbatyula/Mberev council ward in Katsina-Ala local government area of Benue State have been killed by gunmen
WITHIN NIGERIA learnt that the incident happened around 7:00 am on Tuesday, March 30, when the church was rounding off its morning mass.
According to report, several houses were set ablaze during the attack by the gunmen.
Speaking to newsmen, one of the residents said the gunmen stormed the village around 7:00 am and demanded to see the parish priest.
“We directed them to go inside but within split seconds we heard gunshots and everyone scampered for safety. By the time we came back, the Rev. Fr. and others were found dead” he said.
Confirming the incident via a statement, Alfred Atera who is Katsina-Ala local government Chairman identified those killed alongside the priest as Mfave Tumachihi, Mbangohor Tsebo and Orlukaa Ulu.
“On 30th March 2021 at about 7-8 am unknown gunmen came and burnt a village called Agu Centre in Mbatyula/Mberev Council Ward in Katsina-Ala and killed Rev. Fr. Moses Ngugban and three others by name: Mfave Tumachihi, Mbangohor Tsebo and Orlukaa Ulu.” he said.
Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident, saying that security operatives are on the trail of the gunmen.
“Rv. Fr. Nguban Fanen and three others lost their lives during the attack. Corpses have been deposited at General Hospital Katsina-Ala while a joint operation of police and other security agencies are on the trail of the hoodlums”