Six Killed in Easter Church Attack, Army Rescues 31 Abducted Villagers

In a tragic incident during Easter Sunday services, six worshippers were killed and several others abducted by armed bandits in the Ariko community of Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

The attack, which took place in the early hours of the day, specifically targeted two churches: First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, causing widespread panic within the community.

Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers arrived in significant numbers, encircled the area, and opened fire on congregants.

Many individuals were shot, while others were taken hostage. The assailants also reportedly made away with the offerings collected during the church services, intensifying the distress felt by residents.

Those killed were identified as Aminu Soba, Waziri Agunu, Tankoa Haruna, Adamu Jatau, Joseph Gungume, and Rabo Atete.

The attack comes just weeks after a similar incident in Kurmin Wali, also within Kachia LGA, where worshippers were abducted during a church gathering in February 2026.

Following a distress call, troops of the Nigerian Army said they arrived at the community and successfully thwarted further attacks, rescuing 31 abducted villagers.

According to a statement by the Army, “Troops acted on a distress call reporting that armed attackers had invaded a church and taken worshippers hostage.

“Soldiers were immediately mobilised to the area and, with support from local residents, tracked the assailants as they attempted to flee”, the statement read in part.

The troops engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle and overpowered them with superior firepower, forcing them to abandon the 31 hostages. One of the rescued victims, who sustained injuries during the attack, is currently receiving medical attention, according to the statement.

The military added that operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and rescue any remaining captives, while additional personnel have been deployed to secure the area and prevent further attacks.