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A wave of terror swept through Kaduna state today as armed assailants launched coordinated attacks on multiple churches during morning services, resulting in the deaths of at least seven worshippers and the abduction of several others.
According to security sources and eyewitness accounts, the attackers struck three places of worship in quick succession, firing indiscriminately before seizing victims from the premises. The assailants reportedly targeted congregants including women and children before escaping into nearby forests.
Local hospital officials have confirmed the seven fatalities, while an unknown number of victims remain missing, feared kidnapped. Security forces have been deployed to the affected communities, and a manhunt is currently underway.
Governor Uba Sani condemned the attacks in the strongest terms, stating: "This barbaric act against peaceful worshippers is not just an assault on lives but an attack on our collective humanity. We will not rest until these perpetrators are brought to justice and every abducted citizen is safely reunited with their families."
The Nigerian Police Force and military units have established roadblocks and are conducting search-and-rescue operations in the surrounding areas. Authorities urge residents to report any suspicious movements and remain vigilant.
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kaduna Chapter has called for three days of mourning and urged the federal government to intensify efforts against rising insecurity in the region.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attacks, though similar incidents in the region have previously been attributed to bandit militias and extremist factions.