Easter tragedy in Kaduna when gunmen stormed a church, killed seven people, and kidnapped worshippers

Terror struck Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of ​​Kaduna State in the early hours of Sunday, when suspected terrorists launched coordinated attacks on two churches during Easter celebrations, leaving at least seven people dead and several others kidnapped.

The attack, which targeted worshipers gathered for the holy event, sent shockwaves through rural communities, forcing residents to flee for safety amid sporadic gunfire.

Confirming the incident, councilor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, said the attackers attacked the First ECWA Church and St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Augustine at Ariko.

“I am currently on a trip to the community to confirm the exact number of victims. Some sources say seven people died, while others claim eight people. I will provide the latest information once the details are confirmed,” Bawa said.

He explained that the attackers, who reportedly came in large numbers, surrounded the area before opening fire on unsuspecting worshippers.

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“The attackers came in large numbers. They surrounded the location and started shooting sporadically at the congregation. Several people were killed, and many others were taken into the bushes,” he said.

Bawa also cited poor telecommunications networks in the region as a major factor that may hamper any form of emergency response.

Residents said that the attackers operated for long periods of time without resistance, increasing fears for the safety of vulnerable rural communities, especially during religious events.

This latest attack comes just two months after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali, also in Kachia LGA, where several worshipers were abducted during a church service in February 2026—an event that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for a stronger security presence in Southern Kaduna.

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

Security analysts say the recurrence of attacks underscores the ongoing challenges communities in Southern Kaduna face, especially during the festive period when large gatherings are often easy targets.