27 Killed, Dozens Abducted in Easter Attacks Across Three States

At least 27 people have been killed and dozens abducted following coordinated attacks across Kaduna, Benue, and Katsina states during Easter celebrations.

In Benue State, 17 residents were reportedly killed in Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area after suspected armed herdsmen invaded the area between late Saturday and early Sunday. Witnesses said the attackers opened fire on residents and set several houses ablaze, forcing many to flee into surrounding bushes. As of Sunday, some victims were still unaccounted for, while local youths continued efforts to recover bodies.

A resident of the area, Terseer Akaaver, said survivors described widespread destruction and panic as villagers ran in different directions to escape the હુમલો. The incident has displaced many residents, with fears of further violence preventing their return.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing them as unacceptable and a threat to public safety. He assured residents that security agencies are pursuing those responsible and pledged continued efforts to strengthen security and restore peace in affected communities.

In Kaduna State, gunmen attacked two churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, during Easter Sunday services, killing at least eight worshippers and abducting several others. The attackers reportedly stormed the area in large numbers, opened fire on congregants, and took an unspecified number of victims into nearby bush paths.

Local officials said delayed communication due to poor network coverage hindered a rapid security response. Authorities confirmed the attack and said assessments were ongoing.

The Nigerian Army later announced that troops rescued 31 abducted worshippers following a pursuit operation. According to the military, soldiers responded to a distress call, engaged the attackers in a firefight, and forced them to abandon the captives. One rescued victim was reported injured and is receiving treatment.

However, the army said five victims were found dead at the scene, indicating that some casualties occurred before or during the rescue operation. Troops have since intensified efforts to track down the fleeing attackers and locate any remaining abductees.

In Katsina State, suspected bandits carried out a series of coordinated attacks in Matazu Local Government Area, leaving two people dead, including a police officer. Residents said the હુમલાખોરો initially struck Sayaya town, where they burned a hospital and looted shops before setting them on fire. The violence later spread to other nearby communities, with additional property destroyed and a young boy injured.

The attacks have heightened fear across the affected regions, with residents calling for urgent intervention by security agencies. As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to issue a comprehensive statement on the Katsina incidents.

Security forces say operations are ongoing across the three states to apprehend those responsible and prevent further attacks.