The Nigerian Army has rescued 31 civilians held hostage during an attack on a church service in Ariko village, Kaduna state, on Easter Sunday. Five people were found dead at the scene, according to military officials.
Troops responded swiftly, freeing the hostages and launching operations to track the assailants. Security has since been reinforced with additional patrols to protect residents and stabilize affected communities.
Caleb Maaji, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kaduna, confirmed that two churches were targeted and said investigations are ongoing. Seven people are feared dead, with several others reportedly abducted. Authorities are assessing the full scale of casualties and damage.
The region has faced persistent violence, including kidnappings and armed raids by criminal groups operating from forest hideouts, despite increased military presence. Officials emphasized that the attacks reflect broader insecurity rather than targeted religious persecution.