Boki Church Attack: Bisong Seeks Justice, Urges Calm

By Ekanem Asuquo 

.Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong, Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, has condemned the arson attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Katchuan Irruan, describing it as a serious threat to religious harmony and public order.

The incident occurred in the early hours of February 26, 2026, when unidentified individuals reportedly broke into the church and set parts of the premises ablaze. The fire destroyed the consecrated altar, sacred vessels and other worship items. Two vehicles belonging to the Parish Priest and his guests were also burned.

The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Mathew, who recently assumed pastoral duties in Irruan after serving at St. Finan Parish, Iso Bendeghe, was confirmed safe.

In a statement released in Calabar, Bisong described the attack as a deliberate desecration of a sacred space and an affront to the values of faith and civilization. He said places of worship symbolize hope and moral guidance, and that any assault on them undermines communal peace.

He commended parishioners and residents of Irruan in Boki Local Government Area for maintaining calm and choosing peaceful reflection rather than retaliation. According to him, their restraint reflects a strong commitment to lawful conduct and unity.

The lawmaker called on security agencies to intensify investigations and ensure that those behind the attack are identified and brought to justice. He emphasized that prompt action would reassure citizens and discourage similar acts.

Bisong also noted that Cross River State has maintained a reputation for peaceful coexistence under Governor Bassey Otu and urged that no individual or group be allowed to disrupt that legacy.

He reaffirmed his solidarity with the Catholic Church and the Irruan community, assuring them of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property and places of worship across the state.