The leadership of St. Mary’s Cathedral Wukari in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State has recounted the scale of destruction following a fire outbreak that engulfed the church on Wednesday night.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Catholic Diocese of Wukari confirmed that only the walls of the cathedral remained standing after the inferno, which severely damaged the structure.
The diocese said the flames swept through the church late Wednesday night, leaving most parts of the building destroyed.
The statement, signed by the diocesan chancellor, Simon Akuraga, disclosed that the incident occurred at about 9:40 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, shortly after members of the church choir had concluded their midweek rehearsal and left the premises.
According to the statement, a priest and two other individuals were still inside the church praying when the fire broke out.
“The priest heard an electrical spark from the ceiling followed by smoke and rapidly spreading flames. He quickly removed the Blessed Sacrament from the tabernacle and rushed out to seek help, starting with the security men at the gate,” the statement said.
Despite swift efforts by parishioners and concerned residents to contain the fire, the blaze could not be brought under control.
Church authorities confirmed that most of the cathedral’s properties were destroyed, although a few items were successfully salvaged.
Items rescued from the fire include the Blessed Sacrament, some altar chairs, musical instruments, as well as several liturgical vestments and vessels.
“The inferno left only the walls of the cathedral standing,” the statement added.
While expressing appreciation to individuals and community members who responded promptly to assist during the emergency, the diocese also thanked those who have shown solidarity through prayers and messages of encouragement.
The church called on the faithful and the general public to continue offering prayers as the diocese seeks “grace and strength to rise above the current challenges.”
No casualties were reported in the incident, while the cause of the fire is suspected to be electrical.