By Deborah Nnamdi
Suspected terrorists have attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, targeting two Christian worship centres during Easter celebrations and killing at least seven persons, while several others were abducted.
The assault, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, threw the community into panic as gunmen reportedly stormed the area in large numbers and opened fire on worshippers.
The councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, stating that the affected churches were First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, both located within Ariko community.
Bawa said casualty figures remained unclear, noting that conflicting reports had emerged. According to him, some sources put the death toll at seven, while others claimed eight fatalities.
“I am currently on my way to the community to ascertain the exact number of casualties. I will provide an update once details are confirmed,” he said.
He attributed the scale of the attack partly to poor telecommunications coverage in the area, which may have delayed emergency 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,” Bawa added.
Residents alleged that the assailants operated for an extended period without resistance, heightening concerns over the vulnerability of rural communities in the state.
The incident comes barely two months after a similar attack in Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia Local Government Area, where several worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026, sparking outrage and renewed calls for improved security presence in Southern Kaduna.
When contacted, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said he would provide further details on the incident.
Observers say the recurring attacks underscore persistent security challenges in Southern Kaduna, particularly during religious gatherings and festive periods.
