Suspected terrorists have reportedly killed at least seven people following an attack on two churches in Ariko community, located in Kachia Local Government Area, during Easter celebrations on Sunday, April 5.
The affected churches, identified as First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church, were said to be holding services when the attackers struck, unleashing violence on worshippers gathered for the religious observance.
Confirming the incident, the councillor representing Awon Ward, Mark Bawa, said he was en route to the community to verify the exact number of casualties, noting discrepancies in initial reports.
“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 stated.
He further revealed that poor telecommunications in the area may have contributed to the attackers carrying out the assault without swift intervention from security forces.
“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.
The attack comes barely a week after a similar incident during Palm Sunday celebrations in Jos, where over twenty people were reportedly killed, raising fresh concerns over security during religious gatherings in parts of northern Nigeria.
