On Easter Sunday, the Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State was plunged into tragedy as suspected terrorists launched coordinated attacks on two Christian worship centers: the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church. The brutal assaults, which occurred during morning services as congregants celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ, resulted in the deaths of at least seven persons and the abduction of several others, according to initial reports.

Mark Bawa, the Councillor representing Awon Ward where Ariko District is located, confirmed the harrowing incident. He described how the attackers, arriving in large numbers, surrounded the churches and began shooting sporadically at worshippers. Bawa noted that while sources suggested seven people had been confirmed dead, others claimed eight. The poor telecommunications coverage in the area was cited as a factor that might have enabled the attackers to carry out the assault without an immediate response, allowing them to take many victims into the bush.

However, swift action by troops of the Nigerian Army foiled a significant portion of the terrorist operation. Following a distress call reporting the abduction of worshippers at an ECWA Church in Ariko Village, Army troops promptly mobilized. With invaluable support and guidance from members of the Ariko community, the soldiers advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists. They engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, ultimately overwhelming them with superior firepower.

The intense pressure exerted by the advancing troops compelled the terrorists to abandon 31 hostages, including one individual who sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention. Regrettably, the remains of five victims who had already been killed by the terrorists were also recovered at the scene. The Nigerian Army reported that the fleeing terrorists are believed to have suffered significant casualties, evidenced by visible blood trails along their escape routes, indicating the effectiveness of the military's response.

In the aftermath, the Nigerian Army has intensified pursuit operations to track the remaining elements to their enclaves, with ongoing efforts focused on rescuing any captives still being held and ensuring the perpetrators are brought to justice. To reinforce security and prevent further attacks, additional troops have been deployed to the area. The Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting citizens and defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, collaborating closely with other security agencies and local stakeholders.

This attack in Ariko echoes a similar tragic event that occurred just a week prior in Jos, where suspected terrorists attacked a community during Palm Sunday celebrations, claiming over twenty lives. The Nigerian Army has urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information, emphasizing that collective vigilance is paramount for sustaining enduring peace and stability across the nation.