Easter Sunday turned tragic in Kaduna State after suspected terrorists attacked worshippers in two churches, killing at least seven people and abducting several others in a coordinated assault that has sent shockwaves across the region.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, as Christians gathered for Easter celebrations. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the gunmen stormed both the Evangelical Church Winning All First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, opening fire on unsuspecting congregants.
A local councillor, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident, stating that the attackers arrived in large numbers, surrounded the area, and carried out the operation with little resistance. He noted that while the exact death toll remains uncertain, initial reports indicate that between seven and eight worshippers were killed, with several others forcibly taken into nearby forests.
Residents described a prolonged attack that went largely unchecked, raising fresh concerns about the security situation in rural communities across Southern Kaduna. Poor telecommunications in the area reportedly delayed distress calls and emergency response efforts, allowing the assailants to operate for an extended period.
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The latest violence comes amid a pattern of attacks in the region. Only weeks earlier, worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in Kurmin Wali community, deepening fears among residents and religious groups.
As of press time, security agencies have yet to provide full details of the incident, though police authorities say investigations are ongoing and further updates will be made available.
The attack has intensified calls for urgent action to address insecurity in Kaduna State, particularly in vulnerable rural areas where communities remain exposed to repeated assaults.
