Tragedy struck communities in Kaduna State on Sunday following coordinated attacks by suspected terrorists on two churches, leaving at least seven worshippers dead and several others abducted.
The attacks reportedly occurred during early morning services in separate locations within the state, throwing residents into panic and grief. Eyewitness accounts revealed that heavily armed assailants stormed the churches, opening fire indiscriminately before whisking away an unspecified number of congregants into nearby forests.
Local sources disclosed that the attackers arrived in large numbers, overpowering local security presence and carrying out the operation with little resistance. Survivors recounted scenes of chaos as worshippers scampered for safety amid gunshots and confusion.
Security agencies have since been deployed to the affected areas, with a joint task force launching search-and-rescue operations aimed at tracking down the perpetrators and securing the release of those abducted. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to restore calm and prevent further attacks.
A spokesperson for the police in Kaduna State confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the assault and bring those responsible to justice.
Meanwhile, community leaders and religious groups have condemned the attacks, describing them as barbaric and a direct assault on freedom of worship. They called on the government to intensify security measures, particularly in vulnerable rural areas where such incidents have become increasingly frequent.
The latest violence adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where banditry and terrorist activities continue to pose significant threats to civilian populations.
As families mourn their loved ones and await news of those abducted, residents are urging swift and decisive action from authorities to curb the persistent wave of violence in the region.