Dr. Hilary Bisong, representing Boki State Constituency 1 in the Cross River House of Assembly, has called for urgent justice following an arson attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Katchuan Iruan, Boki Local Government Area.
In a statement issued in Calabar on Saturday, Bisong condemned the early morning attack on February 26, describing it as a serious threat to religious harmony and public order.
According to reports, unidentified assailants broke into the church and set parts of the building ablaze, destroying the altar, sacred vessels, and other items used in worship.
Two vehicles belonging to the Parish Priest and his guests were also destroyed. Thankfully, there were no casualties.
Bisong termed the attack “a deliberate desecration of a sacred space and an affront to the values of faith and civilization.”
He emphasised that places of worship symbolize hope and moral guidance, and any assault on them undermines communal peace.
The lawmaker commended parishioners and residents of Iruan for maintaining calm and choosing peaceful reflection rather than retaliation.
“Their restraint reflects a strong commitment to lawful conduct and unity,” he stated.
Calling on security agencies to intensify investigations, Bisong stressed the importance of identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators promptly.
“Swift action will reassure citizens and deter similar acts,” he said.
He also highlighted Cross River’s long-standing reputation for peaceful coexistence under Gôvernor Bassey Otu, urging that it must not be disrupted.
Bisong reaffirmed his solidarity with the Catholic Church and the Iruan community, assuring them that the government remains committed to protecting lives, property, and places of worship across the state.
Meanwhile, the Cross River State Police Command said no arrests have yet been made.
ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the police spokesperson, confirmed that officers are actively investigating the incident and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
The attack has drawn attention to the need for continued vigilance to protect religious institutions and maintain harmony within the state.
