The military in Nigeria has rescued 31 worshippers abducted during Easter Sunday celebrations in northwestern Kaduna State, following a deadly attack that left at least five people dead.
Gunmen stormed both a Catholic and an evangelical church in the village of Ariko, located about 100 kilometres from Abuja. According to Christian Association of Nigeria state chairman Caleb Bawa Ma’aji, the assault occurred during morning worship, prompting swift military intervention.
The armed forces said troops engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to abandon the hostages. The rescue operation underscores persistent insecurity in the region, where criminal groups—commonly referred to as bandits—frequently target communities for ransom.
Kaduna remains among several states grappling with recurring violence, despite intensified military deployments. In a related development, security forces reportedly killed at least 65 bandits in an operation in Zamfara State, signalling ongoing efforts to curb escalating attacks.
Nigeria’s security challenges have drawn international attention, including remarks by Donald Trump alleging targeted violence against Christians—claims the government has rejected, maintaining that both Muslim and Christian communities have been victims of terrorist activities.