The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division in Sokoto has officially dismissed rumors circulating on social media about an alleged attack on the residence of Bishop Matthew Kukah and the Sokoto Catholic Cathedral. Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, issued a statement on Saturday clarifying that the reports were misleading and unfounded.
The Army emphasized that there was no attack in Sokoto State and reassured the public that both Bishop Kukah’s residence and the cathedral are secure. They noted that the bishop is currently engaged in his Easter duties without any disruptions. The Army also confirmed that they have implemented adequate security measures to ensure a peaceful Easter celebration in the region.
In a related statement, the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, through its Director of Communications, Mr. Pascal Salifu, also refuted the claims, labeling them as false and misleading. They pointed out that the misleading video associated with the report had been circulating since the tragic murder of Deborah Yakubu in May 2022.
The diocese condemned the actions of those spreading such misinformation and reassured the public that the bishop’s residence, the cathedral, and the Catholic Pastoral Centre are safe and operational. They also conveyed Bishop Kukah’s Easter greetings to the community and expressed gratitude to the military and security agencies for their prompt response to the false claims.
