Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State was thrown into mourning and panic on Easter Sunday after terrorists launched a deadly assault on two Christian worship centres.
The attackers struck in the early hours of Sunday, April 5, 2026, targeting worshippers at the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church during Easter celebrations. At least seven people were killed, with some local sources reporting up to eight deaths, while several others were abducted and taken into the surrounding bush.
Mark Bawa, the councillor representing Awon Ward (which includes Ariko District), confirmed the incident in a phone conversation with PUNCH Online. He was en route to the community to get precise details on the casualties.
“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 described how the terrorists arrived in large numbers, surrounded the area, and opened sporadic gunfire on the worshippers.
“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 poor telecommunications coverage in the remote area delayed any immediate security response, allowing the assailants to operate for a prolonged period without resistance. This has heightened fears about the vulnerability of rural communities in Southern Kaduna, especially during religious festivals.
This latest attack comes barely two months after a similar incident in the Kurmin Wali community, also in Kachia LGA, where scores of worshippers were abducted during a church gathering earlier in 2026. That event had already triggered public outrage and fresh demands for stronger security presence in the region.
When contacted, the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said he would provide further details on the incident soon.
The recurring violence underscores the persistent security challenges facing Southern Kaduna, where rural communities and religious gatherings remain frequent targets. More updates are expected as authorities and local leaders assess the full extent of the casualties and begin rescue or recovery efforts.
Our thoughts are with the affected families, the Ariko community, and all those impacted by this tragic event during what should have been a time of joy and reflection for Christians celebrating Easter.
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