Easter Sunday Massacre: Many Worshippers Feared Killed, Abducted As Terrorists Attack Churches
Tragedy struck the Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Easter Sunday as suspected terrorists launched coordinated attacks on two Christian worship centres, killing several people and abducting others.
The early morning assault targeted worshippers at the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church as congregants gathered to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers stormed the area in large numbers, surrounding the churches before opening fire on worshippers.
The Councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident, describing the attack as devastating. According to him, the assailants shot sporadically, leaving multiple casualties and taking several persons into the surrounding bush.
Bawa said preliminary reports indicate that at least seven people have been confirmed dead, although the exact number of casualties remains uncertain.
“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,” he said.
Residents expressed frustration over the prolonged nature of the attack, noting that the assailants operated for an extended period without any intervention from security agencies. Bawa attributed the delayed response to poor telecommunications coverage in the area, which hindered efforts to call for help during the incident.
The attack has renewed concerns among leaders in Southern Kaduna over the vulnerability of rural communities and the apparent decline in security presence across the region.
This latest incident adds to a growing pattern of attacks on religious gatherings in the state. In February 2026, gunmen reportedly invaded Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia LGA, abducting scores of worshippers during a church service.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the Kaduna State Police Command were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, did not respond to calls seeking confirmation of the incident or updates on the victims.
