A late-evening inferno on Wednesday night has razed St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral in the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Taraba State, leaving the multi-million-naira structure in ruins.

Rev Fr John Laikei, Director of Communications for the diocese, told journalists on the phone that the fire broke out on Wednesday night, shortly after power was restored in the area.

He said that the cathedral, which is a prominent landmark in Wukari, was completely destroyed, but added that no casualty was recorded.

Fr Laikei described the incident as a “total setback” for the diocese, stating that they were still in shock.

“It is a scene of utter destruction, with fire everywhere. No roofs and furniture are still standing here.“The cause of the fire is currently unknown, but all I can say is power was restored and the incident occurred. I want to also tell you that the authorities are yet to assess the damage,” he said.

He further lamented the lack of functional fire service vehicles, which has been a long-standing issue in Wukari, and called for urgent attention.

Our correspondent reports that the incident is coming a few months after Wukari Local Government Secretariat was completely destroyed by an inferno.

Our correspondent further reports that incidents of fire outbreaks have risen exponentially, affecting homes, businesses, offices and now churches, to the extent that the state governor, Agbu Kefas, has set up a committee to look into the surge. (The Sun)

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