7 killed, several kidnapped as terrorists attack churches in Kaduna

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

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 attack, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, plunged the community into panic as heavily armed assailants stormed the area in large numbers.

The councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident, identifying the affected churches as 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 said that poor telecommunications coverage in the area may have contributed to the scale of the attack, delaying any immediate response.

“The attackers came in large numbers. They surrounded the area and began shooting sporadically at worshippers. Several people were killed, while many others were taken away into the bush,” he added.

Residents said the assailants operated for an extended period without resistance, raising fresh concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities in the area.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.