The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has raised alarm over escalating violence in Kebbi State, revealing that 24 people were killed in an Easter Sunday attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area.

According to the Diocese, suspected terrorists stormed the community on April 5, unleashing hours of violence that left dozens dead and properties destroyed, including a church and a mosque.

The victims reportedly included Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, which the Diocese described as a “tragedy against humanity” rather than an attack on any single religious group.

The attackers also set ablaze St. Mary’s Catholic Church, residential homes, and shops, while targeting mostly men and youths.

Security sources indicated that the assailants were believed to have come from hideouts in the Wawa Forest in Borgu Local Government Area of neighbouring Niger State.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that security forces, including the military, marine police, and local vigilantes, have been deployed to restore order in the affected communities.

The violence also spread to nearby villages such as Gebe, Kawara, and Kalkami, with reports of widespread destruction and displacement.

In the aftermath, hundreds of residents fled their homes, with at least 491 internally displaced persons currently taking refuge in Yauri, according to the Diocese.

The Church said the displaced persons urgently need food, clean water, medical care, and shelter, warning that existing support systems are overstretched.

It called on Bola Tinubu and Kebbi State authorities to take decisive action to restore security and enable displaced residents to return home safely.

The Diocese also appealed to humanitarian organisations and the international community to intervene, warning that communities in the state are now living in fear amid ongoing attacks.