Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Kaduna, Nigeria — During the Easter period, communities in Kaduna State experienced severe attacks by armed groups, targeting worshippers and local residents. Multiple credible reports confirm that on Easter Sunday, gunmen struck the Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area, attacking two churches — First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church — while congregants were gathered for worship. The assailants arrived in large numbers, opening fire on those inside and around the church compounds, creating widespread panic and leaving several dead. Initial casualty figures reported at least seven fatalities, with many others abducted.
Eyewitnesses described the attackers using motorcycles to move swiftly, blocking escape routes and pursuing fleeing worshippers. Several people were reportedly seized during the assault and taken into surrounding bushland. Residents said some of the dead were buried under tight security, and survivors spoke of the intense fear and trauma experienced during the incident.
In response, Nigerian security forces, including the army, mobilised troops to the area. The military claimed it engaged the attackers, forcing them to retreat and leaving behind 31 abducted civilians, including one person injured during the attack. Authorities said the operation recovered bodies of some of the victims and secured the release of hostages.
However, local community leaders disputed the army’s account, stating that abducted worshippers were still in captivity. Representatives from the Kuturmi Unity Development Association said families remained in contact with captors and described the military’s version as inaccurate. This divergence in accounts reflects the continuing confusion and concern among residents about the safety of those affected.
Kaduna State has long been affected by armed banditry, kidnappings and violent raids, particularly in rural areas. Earlier in the year, similar attacks were reported in Kurmin Wali and other communities, where churchgoers were abducted, raising concerns over security gaps during religious gatherings.
Religious and civil society groups have condemned the attacks, calling for stronger protection for vulnerable communities, more transparent reporting, and sustained security measures. Analysts note that repeated attacks in southern Kaduna and surrounding regions have heightened fear among civilians and emphasized the need for coordinated rescue operations and preventive strategies.
While a former school principal, Christina Ankut, reportedly described horrific acts during the attacks, including claims about pregnant women, these specific allegations have not been independently verified by credible sources. Verified reporting confirms the shootings, abductions, and fatalities during the Easter attacks but does not substantiate extreme claims of abuse toward pregnant women or infants.
Families and community representatives continue to demand coordinated rescue efforts for those abducted and long-term measures to ensure the safety of residents during worship and communal events. The Easter attacks underline the persistent insecurity in Kaduna State and the urgent need for effective protection of civilians in vulnerable communities.
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