Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully repelled a terrorist attack in Ariko Village, located in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, rescuing 31 civilians who were abducted during an Easter church service.
The development was disclosed in an official statement issued on Sunday, detailing how the military responded swiftly to a distress call reporting the abduction of worshippers at an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) congregation in the community.
According to the Army, the incident occurred during Easter celebrations, a period when Christians gather in large numbers to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The attackers reportedly stormed the village in the early hours, targeting places of worship and unleashing violence on unsuspecting congregants.
Upon receiving the alert, troops were immediately mobilised to the area. Working in close coordination with local residents, particularly members of the Ariko community who provided critical intelligence and guidance, the soldiers pursued the fleeing attackers into surrounding areas.
The Army stated that the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, deploying superior firepower that forced the assailants to retreat under pressure.
“With the support and guidance of members of the Ariko community, troops advanced in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists and engaged them decisively,” the statement noted. “The overwhelming response compelled the attackers to abandon several of their captives.”
As a result of the operation, 31 abducted civilians were rescued. Among them was one individual who sustained injuries during the attack and is currently receiving medical attention.
However, the operation also revealed the tragic extent of the violence. The Army confirmed that the bodies of five victims who had been killed by the terrorists were recovered at the scene, underscoring the brutality of the assault.
Military authorities further disclosed that the fleeing attackers likely suffered significant casualties during the confrontation. This assessment was based on visible blood trails along their escape routes, suggesting that several of them were wounded in the exchange of fire.
In the aftermath of the rescue mission, the Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to track down the perpetrators. Troops have launched follow-up operations aimed at locating the terrorists’ hideouts, rescuing any remaining captives, and ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
Additional security personnel have also been deployed to Ariko and surrounding communities to reinforce safety measures and prevent further incursions. The Army emphasized that maintaining a sustained presence in the area is critical to restoring confidence among residents and deterring future attacks.
Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the Army stated that it remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property, as well as defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity. It added that its operations are being carried out in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response to threats.
The Army also called on members of the public to continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information. It stressed that community cooperation remains a vital component in the fight against terrorism and other forms of insecurity.
The attack on Ariko Village has been widely described as a tragic incident that cast a shadow over what is typically a period of joy and reflection for Christians. Reports indicate that the assailants launched coordinated assaults on two churches—First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church—where worshippers had gathered for Easter services.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the attackers arrived in large numbers, surrounding the area before opening fire indiscriminately. The sudden and violent nature of the assault left several people dead and many others abducted, sparking panic and confusion within the community.
A local government official, Mark Bawa, who represents Awon Ward, confirmed the incident, describing it as a devastating attack on innocent civilians.
“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 said.
Initial reports indicated that at least seven people lost their lives in the attacks, although the exact number of casualties may be higher as investigations continue.
Residents of the affected communities have expressed shock and grief over the incident, calling for increased security presence and more proactive measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The attack highlights the persistent security challenges in parts of Kaduna State and the broader region, where communities have faced recurring threats from armed groups. It also underscores the vulnerability of rural areas, particularly during major religious or social gatherings.
Despite the tragedy, the successful rescue of 31 hostages has been seen as a significant achievement, offering a measure of relief to affected families and the wider community.
Security analysts note that the operation demonstrates the importance of rapid response, local intelligence, and coordinated action in countering such threats. They also stress the need for sustained efforts to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, lack of education, and the proliferation of arms.
As the military continues its pursuit of the attackers, attention remains focused on ensuring justice for the victims and preventing further violence. For the people of Ariko and neighbouring communities, the hope is that strengthened security measures will bring lasting peace and allow them to rebuild in the aftermath of the attack.
The Nigerian Army, for its part, has reiterated that it will not relent in its efforts, assuring Nigerians that it remains committed to safeguarding lives and maintaining stability across the country.
