In a statement issued to Advocatus Africa, the Communications Office of the Catholic Diocese of Pankshin reported that “A fire incident occurred this morning, February 1, 2026, at the Old Convent of St. Francis Parish in Mangu, where Frs. Peter Yilkora, Kamji Bunyock, and a seminarian were residing.”
Regarding the cause of the inferno, the diocese noted, “While the Diocese and experts work to determine the cause and assess the extent of the damage, we ask for your prayers for the Parish of St. Francis, Mangu, and our dear brothers.”
Describing the escape of the two occupants as a miraculous act, the diocese stated, “To the glory of God, all residents of the facility are safe; however, there has been significant damage to the apartment.”
It was also mentioned that “Fr. Peter Yilkora will temporarily reside at the Holy Cross Cathedral in Pankshin.”
The Catholic Diocese of Pankshin, located in North-central Nigeria, was canonically established on March 18, 2014, by Pope Francis, carved out from the territory of the Archdiocese of Jos and the Diocese of Shendam, with Most Rev. Michael Gobal Gokum serving as its first bishop.
