By Our Correspondent
National News – The Nigerian Army has denied reports circulating on social media claiming that armed attackers targeted the residence of Matthew Kukah and the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto cathedral in Sokoto.
The military described the claims as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 8 Division, Olaniyi Osoba, clarified that no such attack occurred anywhere within the state.
According to the Army, the report—widely shared on Facebook—falsely alleged that armed men had attacked the home of Bishop Kukah and the Sokoto Catholic Cathedral during the Easter period.
Osoba stated that the attention of the 8 Division and Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA was drawn to the viral post, which they immediately investigated.
He stressed that security checks confirmed there was no attack on the bishop’s residence or the cathedral at any time.
“The claims are completely unfounded. There was no armed assault on Bishop Kukah’s residence or the Sokoto Catholic Cathedral,” Osoba said.
He added that both locations remain secure and under normal conditions, while the respected cleric continues his Easter pastoral duties without interruption.
The Army further assured residents of Sokoto and surrounding communities that security personnel remain on high alert to maintain peace during the Easter celebrations.
Authorities noted that troops are working closely with other security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the state.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto also dismissed the circulating video linked to the claim.
In a separate statement, the Director of Communications for the diocese, Pascal Salifu, said the footage being shared online was old and misleading.
Salifu explained that the video began circulating shortly after the tragic killing of Deborah Yakubu in May 2022 and was now being reused to create confusion.
He said the bishop’s residence, the cathedral, and the Catholic Pastoral Centre in Sokoto remain intact, safe, and fully operational.
The diocese also conveyed Bishop Kukah’s Easter goodwill message to residents and faithful, wishing them a joyful celebration while thanking security agencies for responding quickly to the misinformation.
