The Easter celebrations in Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State was disrupted on Sunday as suspected terrorists attacked two Christian worship centres during service killing at least seven persons and abducting several others.
It is the second reported attack in two months in the LGA after a similar incident in the Kurmin Wali community where scores of worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February.
The councillor representing Awon ward, under which Ariko district falls, Hon. Mark Bawa, told The PUNCH via the phone that the affected churches, this time, were First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church.
‘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 added 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 said that the assailants operated for a prolonged period without resistance, raising further concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities in the state.
The latest incident sparked outrage and renewed calls for an improved security presence in Southern Kaduna.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent Mansir Hassan, said that he would provide further details regarding the tragic incident.
Observers noted that the recurring attacks highlight the persistent security challenges facing rural communities in Southern Kaduna, particularly during religious gatherings and festive periods.
