The Catholic Archdiocese of Makurdi, Benue State, has taken the decisive step of ordering the immediate closure of Father Angus Frazer Memorial High School in Adeke, Makurdi, in response to a recent attack by unidentified gunmen.
The incident, which occurred in the late hours of Tuesday, May 7, 2024, saw armed assailants target the school. Thankfully, the attack was thwarted by personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. While there was no loss of life, one security officer sustained a non-life-threatening injury and is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital.
In a press statement issued on May 8, 2024, Very Rev. Fr. Moses Iorapuu, the Director of Social Communications of the Diocese, announced the immediate suspension of all activities at the school until further notice.
The statement emphasized the primary concern for the safety of the students, stating, “Following the attack on Father Angus Frazer Memorial High School by unidentified gunmen, the Diocese of Makurdi ordered the immediate suspension of activities at the school to protect the lives of the students.”
It further explained that this preemptive measure was taken to avert potential disaster, acknowledging the swift response of school authorities and security personnel in repelling the attack.
Additionally, the Director of Catholic Education Service of the Diocese was tasked with engaging relevant stakeholders, while priests and pastoral units were instructed to enhance security measures around their premises.
The statement concluded with an appeal to the relevant authorities to prioritize the safety of citizens and their property, particularly in areas like Welfare Quarters at Utuur Layout, Phase 3 of Makurdi, which has sadly become known for frequent attacks, killings, and kidnappings, allegedly perpetrated by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
