Gunmen suspected to be terrorists have launched a deadly attack on worshippers in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing no fewer than seven persons and abducting several others during Easter celebrations.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, targeted two churches First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church while residents were observing one of Christianity’s most sacred periods, throwing the entire community into panic.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that the assailants, who reportedly stormed the area in large numbers, operated for hours, firing sporadically and causing widespread fear and confusion among worshippers.
The councillor representing Awon Ward, Mr. Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, noting that casualty figures were still being verified as of the time of filing this report.
“I am on my way to the community to get accurate details. Some reports say seven people were killed, others say eight. I will provide an update once I have confirmed figures,” he said.
Bawa described the attack as alarming, stressing that the scale of the invasion suggested a coordinated assault, while also pointing to poor telecommunications network in the area as a possible factor that delayed emergency response.
“The attackers came in large numbers, surrounded the community and opened fire on worshippers. Several lives were lost, and many others were taken away into the bush,” he added.
In an effort to assertain the authenticity of the attack and kidnapping, further investigation was carried out by our reporter.
Residents who spoke on condition of anonymity said the attackers operated for a prolonged period without interruption, leaving behind scenes of devastation, grief, and uncertainty.
Some locals expressed frustration over what they described as the absence of immediate security intervention, warning that rural communities remain highly vulnerable, especially during religious gatherings.
The latest attack comes barely two months after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia Local Government Area, where scores of worshippers were abducted during a church service, sparking outrage and calls for improved security.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to obtain official confirmation from security agencies were ongoing, while the Police Public Relations Officer in Kaduna State, DSP Mansir Hassan, said he would provide updates on the situation.
Security analysts and community leaders have continued to stress the need for proactive intelligence gathering, improved communication infrastructure, and sustained deployment of security personnel to prevent recurring attacks, particularly during festive periods.