Gunmen Attack Kaduna Churches During Easter, Kill 7, Abduct Many Worshippers

Sunday April 5, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng

Suspected terrorists have launched attack on Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, striking two Christian worship centres during Easter celebrations and leaving at least seven people dead, while several others were abducted.

The assault, which took place in the early hours of Sunday, caused widespread panic among residents of the community.

Mark Bawa, the councillor representing Awon Ward, where Ariko District is located, confirmed the development on Sunday.

He identified the affected churches as First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, both situated within 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 further attributed the scale of the attack to poor telecommunications coverage in the area, which may have delayed any 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 disclosed that the assailants operated for an extended period without resistance, heightening concerns over the exposure of rural communities to such attacks.

The incident occurred less than two months after a similar attack in Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia LGA, where numerous worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026.

That earlier സംഭവം triggered public outrage and renewed calls for stronger security presence across Southern Kaduna.

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

Observers say the repeated attacks underscore the ongoing security challenges confronting rural communities in Southern Kaduna, especially during religious events and festive seasons.

*PUNCH