Kaduna Church Attack, Ariko, Kaduna State – April 5, 2026 – 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 abducting several others.

The early morning attack, which occurred on Sunday, threw the quiet Southern Kaduna community into panic as heavily armed assailants stormed churches and opened fire on worshippers gathered for Easter services.

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Kaduna Church Attack: Attack Targeted Two Churches

According to local sources, the terrorists attacked First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, both located in Ariko community, shooting sporadically and abducting several residents into nearby bushes.

The Councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, stating that the attackers came in large numbers and surrounded the community before launching the assault.

“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 delayed security response and allowed the attackers to operate for an extended period.

“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 added.

Residents reported that the gunmen operated for a prolonged period without resistance, further highlighting the vulnerability of rural communities in Southern Kaduna.

Community Thrown Into Panic

Eyewitnesses said worshippers ran into surrounding bushes for safety as gunshots rang out during the Easter service, while families searched for missing relatives following the attack.

Many residents described the incident as a tragic Easter Sunday, calling on the government and security agencies to urgently strengthen protection for rural communities and places of worship.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Police Command had yet to release an official statement, although authorities indicated that further details would be provided as investigations continue.

Rising Attacks In Southern Kaduna

The latest attack comes barely two months after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia Local Government Area, where several worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026.

Security analysts say repeated attacks on churches and rural communities in Southern Kaduna show persistent security challenges and the urgent need for improved surveillance, telecommunications infrastructure, and rapid security deployment.

Observers noted that religious gatherings and festive periods often attract attacks due to large crowds and limited security presence in remote areas.

Calls For Government Intervention

Community leaders and residents have called on the Federal Government and Kaduna State Government to deploy more security personnel to vulnerable communities and ensure the safe rescue of abducted victims.

They also urged security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and prevent further attacks on worship centres and rural settlements.

The incident has once again raised national concern over insecurity in Northern Nigeria, particularly in Kaduna State, where banditry, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks continue to threaten civilian lives.

More details later…