Terrorists raided the Ariko village in Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, attacking two Christian worship centers during Easter celebrations, murdering at least seven people and kidnapping several more.
The incident, which occurred early Sunday morning, caused widespread alarm.
Mark Bawa, the councillor for Awon Ward, which includes Ariko District, confirmed the attack on Sunday.
According to him, the affected churches include First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, both of which are 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 also stated that poor telecommunications coverage in the area may have allowed the attackers to carry out the assault without 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 reported that the perpetrators went unopposed for a long time, generating new concerns about the state’s rural villages.
The new attack comes just two months after a similar occurrence in the Kurmin Wali community of Kachia LGA, where scores of congregants were kidnapped after a church service in February 2026.
The tragedy provoked uproar and revived requests for increased security in Southern Kaduna.
When reached, Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer DSP Mansir Hassan said he would share more information about the terrible occurrence.
Observers remarked that the reoccurring attacks reflect the ongoing security issues that rural communities in Southern Kaduna face, particularly during religious and holiday celebrations.
