Gunmen Kill Seven, Abduct Worshippers In Kaduna Easter Church Attack

Gunmen Kill Seven, Abduct Worshippers In Kaduna Easter Church Attack
Gunmen stormed two churches, opened fire, and operated without resistance.
Poor telecom network delayed response, raising concerns over rural security gaps.

Suspected terrorists attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday, targeting two Christian worship centres during Easter celebrations, killing at least seven people and abducting several others.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the early morning assault caused panic among residents as worshippers were attacked during church activities.

The councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview on Sunday, stating that the attackers struck First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church within the community.

“I am currently on my way to the community to ascertain the exact number of casualties. Some sources said seven people were killed, while others claimed eight. I will provide an update once details are confirmed,” Bawa said.

He said the assailants arrived in large numbers, surrounded the community, and launched the attack.

“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 said.

Residents said the attackers operated for an extended period without resistance, raising fresh concerns over security in rural communities across the state.

Bawa attributed the delayed response by security operatives to poor telecommunications coverage in the area, noting that the communication gap may have enabled the attackers to carry out the assault without prompt intervention.

Worshippers In Kaduna Easter Church Attack

The attack comes about two months after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia Local Government Area, where several worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026.

The earlier attack triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for stronger security deployment across Southern Kaduna communities.