Catholic Diocese Reports 24 Killed, Worship Centres Razed in Kebbi Easter Attack

Kebbi State, Nigeria — April 10, 2026

Fresh details have emerged regarding a deadly attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, with the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora confirming that at least 24 people were killed during the incident.

According to a statement issued by the Diocese in Yauri, the attack occurred on April 5, 2026—Easter Sunday—when suspected terrorists stormed the community around 5:00 p.m., unleashing hours of violence that left dozens dead and properties destroyed.

The Diocese stated that the confirmed death toll stands at 24, disputing earlier police figures which reportedly placed casualties at four. Victims were said to include Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attack.

During the attack, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a mosque, residential homes, and shops were set ablaze. The attackers reportedly targeted mostly men and youth, leaving the community in devastation.

The violence also extended to nearby communities including Binuwa and Kalkame, where homes, markets, and even the emir’s residence were affected.

Security sources indicated that the attackers were believed to have emerged from hideouts in the Wawa Forest area of Borgu Local Government Area in neighbouring Niger State. Prior to the Debe incident, suspected bandits had launched coordinated night assaults on other villages in Shanga LGA, including Gebe, Kawara, and Kalkami, forcing residents to flee.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that tactical units, alongside the military, marine police, and local vigilantes, have been deployed to restore order in the affected areas.

In the aftermath of the attack, the Diocese reported that 491 internally displaced persons are currently sheltering at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri. The displaced persons are said to be in urgent need of food, clean water, medical care, and adequate shelter, as existing relief efforts are overstretched.

The Church has called on both the Federal Government and Kebbi State authorities to urgently intervene and address the worsening security situation in the region.

This development underscores growing concerns over insecurity in border communities between Kebbi and Niger States. Authorities are yet to provide a comprehensive update on the situation.

Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.