A fire broke out at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Wukari, Taraba State; priest rescued the Blessed Sacrament while authorities investigate the cause

A late-night fire has engulfed parts of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State, sparking shock and concern among parishioners and residents.

Witnesses reported that the inferno broke out suddenly, a few months after the local government council secretariat had been consumed by fire.

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The cause of the blaze remains unknown, and authorities have yet to confirm the full extent of damage or casualties.

During the incident, Fr. James Oliver, a priest in residence at the cathedral, bravely rescued the Blessed Sacrament unharmed before the fire spread further across the premises.

The Wukari Catholic Diocese is still recovering from previous incidents that destroyed parish churches, a rectory, and other valuable properties.

Residents have expressed worry over the state’s inability to provide functional fire service vehicles across local councils, which they said hampers fire containment efforts.

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Local authorities and emergency responders are expected to assess the damage and commence investigations into the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, the community continues to pray for safety and protection against further incidents.