By Ayomide Otitoju
At least six worshippers were killed and several others abducted during a Sunday Easter service in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, after an attack by armed bandits.
The assailants targeted two churches—First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church—arriving in large numbers in the early hours, opening fire on congregants, abducting several, and stealing offerings collected during the services. Those confirmed dead include Aminu Soba, Waziri Agunu, Tankoa Haruna, Adamu Jatau, Joseph Gungume, and Rabo Atete.
The attack comes weeks after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali, also in Kachia LGA, where worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026.
In response to a distress call, Nigerian Army troops were deployed to the area, rescuing 31 abducted villagers. According to an Army statement, soldiers, with support from locals, tracked the attackers as they attempted to flee, engaging them in a gun battle and forcing them to release the hostages. One rescued victim is receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the attack.
The Army added that operations are ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects and recover any remaining captives, while additional forces have been deployed to secure the area and prevent further attacks.
