The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has raised concern over worsening insecurity in parts of Kebbi State, reporting that 24 people were killed in an attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area on Easter Sunday.
The Diocese said the incident is part of a wider pattern of violence affecting border communities between Kebbi and Niger states, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted rural settlements in recent weeks.
Earlier attacks were reported in nearby villages, including Gebe, Kawara and Kalkami, where suspected bandits allegedly invaded communities at night, burning homes and forcing residents to flee.
Security sources attributed the attackers to suspected armed groups operating from forest hideouts in Wawa Forest, located in Borgu Local Government Area of neighbouring Niger State.
The Kebbi State Police Command said tactical teams, alongside military personnel, marine police and local vigilantes, had been deployed to restore order in the affected areas.
In a statement issued in Yauri on Thursday, the Diocese said armed men stormed Debe village around 5pm on April 5, killing residents and destroying property during hours of sustained violence.
“We want Nigeria and the international community to know what transpired in Debe,” the statement said, adding that 24 people were confirmed dead, contrary to earlier police figures that put the toll at four.
The Diocese noted that victims included Christians, Muslims and traditional worshippers, describing the attack as “a tragedy against humanity, not a particular faith.”
According to the Church, the attackers set fire to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a mosque, homes and shops, with most of the victims reportedly targeted among men and young people.
The violence also spread to surrounding communities, including Binuwa and Kalkame, where further destruction was recorded. Markets and the emir’s residence were also reportedly affected.
The Diocese said the attacks have displaced hundreds of residents, with about 491 people currently taking refuge at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri, where emergency support is being provided.
It warned that the displaced persons are in urgent need of food, clean water, medical care and shelter, noting that existing humanitarian support is overstretched.
The Church called on the Federal Government and Kebbi State authorities to take urgent steps to restore security and enable displaced families to return home safely.
It also appealed to humanitarian agencies and the international community for immediate assistance, warning that continued violence could deepen the humanitarian crisis in the region.
