The Catholic Diocese of Sokoto has denied claims that Bishop Matthew Kukah’s residence, the cathedral, and a N1 billion pastoral center were attacked. In a statement, the diocese described the claims as “totally false” and attributed them to individuals seeking to destabilize the society.

The false claims circulated online, alleging that Islamists set the facilities ablaze in Sokoto. However, the diocese confirmed that the bishop’s residence, cathedral, and pastoral center remain safe and operational.

The incident is linked to the 2022 murder of Deborah Yakubu, a student at Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto. The diocese expressed gratitude to security agencies for responding promptly to the false claims.

In an official disclaimer issued and signed by Rev. Fr. Pascal Salifu, Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto and dated Saturday April 4, 2026 but obtained on Sunday April 5, the Diocese put off the circulation of an old video still being circulated years after as the handiwork of individuals bent on destabilising the peace of the society.

The statement said, “Our attention has been drawn to a misleading and false video currently circulating online with the caption: “Breaking!!! Bishop Kukah’s house, Cathedral and 1 billion Naira Catholic Pastoral Centre set ablaze by Islamists in Sokoto.”

“We wish to inform the general public that this information is totally false.

“The Bishop’s residence, the Cathedral, and the Catholic Pastoral Centre in Sokoto remain safe, intact, and fully operational.

“This video started circulating in the wake of the brutal murder of Deborah Yakubu, a student of Shehu Shagari College of Education, in Sokoto, May 2022. This is the work of persons committed to causing havoc in our society.

“The Bishop expresses gratitude to the Military and State Security agencies who responded immediately the video started circulating.

“Sokoto remains calm and peaceful,” the Bishop said while extending his warm greetings and goodwill to all the faithful and people of goodwill and wishes everyone a joyful and grace-filled Easter in advance.