Terrorists attack Kaduna churches, kill seven, abduct others

Terrorists have attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, targeting two Christian worship centres during Easter celebrations, killing at least seven persons and abducting several others.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, threw the community into panic.

The councillor representing Awon Ward, under which Ariko District falls, Mark Bawa, confirmed the attack to PUNCH Online on Sunday via phone call.

According to him, the affected churches are First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, both located in Ariko.

“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 added that poor telecommunications coverage in the area may have allowed the attackers to carry out the assault without immediate response.

“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.

Residents said the assailants operated for a prolonged period without resistance, raising further concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities in the state.

The latest attack comes barely two months after a similar incident in the Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia LGA, where scores of worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026.

That incident sparked outrage and renewed calls for an improved security presence in Southern Kaduna.

When contacted, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said he would provide further details regarding the tragic incident.

Observers noted that the recurring attacks highlight the persistent security challenges facing rural communities in Southern Kaduna, particularly during religious gatherings and festive periods.