Blood and panic marred Easter celebrations in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, as terrorists launched a coordinated attack on Christian worship centres, killing at least seven people and abducting several others.
The early morning assault targeted First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, leaving devastation in its wake and forcing residents to flee in fear.
Awon Ward councillor, Mark Bawa, confirmed the attack, saying he was en route to the community to verify casualty figures.
“I am currently on my way to the community to ascertain the exact number of casualties. Some sources said seven persons were killed, while others claimed eight. I will provide an update once details are confirmed,” Bawa said.
He disclosed that the attackers stormed the area in large numbers, exploiting poor network coverage to strike without immediate resistance.
“The attackers came in large numbers. They surrounded the area and began shooting sporadically at worshippers. Several people were killed, and many others were taken away into the bush,” he stated.
Eyewitnesses said the gunmen operated for a prolonged period unchallenged, exposing the fragile security situation in rural Southern Kaduna, especially during religious gatherings.
The latest bloodshed comes just weeks after a similar killing in Kurmin Wali, also in Kachia LGA, where worshippers were abducted during a church service in February 2026, sparking outrage and calls for urgent security intervention.
Kaduna State Police spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, said more details would be made public as investigations unfold.
With repeated attacks targeting vulnerable communities, fears are mounting over safety during religious and festive periods.
More details soon…
