Thirty-seven residents of Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State remain in captivity one week after being abducted by armed bandits during Easter Sunday church services on April 5, 2026. The attack, which occurred during a time of celebration, saw five worshippers killed and 37 others taken hostage, mostly women and children. The victims were reportedly inside the church when the attackers stormed in, disrupting the service and forcing the abductions in broad daylight. Since then, there has been no official confirmation of their whereabouts or the status of negotiations for their release.
The incident has sparked widespread concern across Kaduna State and beyond, with social media users and community leaders calling for urgent government intervention. Mr Reuben Buhari, a former Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the late Kaduna State Governor Patrick Yakowa, shared a heartfelt appeal on his verified Facebook page, highlighting the plight of the abducted. He described how the victims, dressed in their Sunday best, had gone to church to celebrate Easter and were preparing to return home to enjoy family meals when they were violently taken. Buhari emphasized that they are now trapped in the bush, suffering from hunger, fear, and emotional distress.
Among those still missing are Gloria Hosea, Fibi Ezekiel, Ladi Aminu, Ladi Danlami, Lami Audu, Ahmadu Dandoka, Sunday Alhaji, Helen Waziri, Jummai Jacob, Tanimu Atete, Dandy Shehu, Stephen Dandy, Victoria Simeon, Toma Simeon, Akwa Simeon, Blessing Simeon, Lami Tanko, Alice Tanko, Lewis Ezekiel, Edward Ezekiel, Elisheba Ezekiel, Mary Sunday, Alheri Bitrus, Hadeza Garba, Rahab Ibrahim, Juliet Ibrahim, Anna Bako, Geoffrey Jacob, Mamah Sunday, Lami Bahago, Dorcas Simeon, Joy Irimiya, Frances Tanko, Doka Auta, Joy Simeon, Faith Sunday, and Abigail Sunday. Their names have been circulated widely to raise awareness and prompt public support.
The abduction has reignited fears over insecurity in Kachia LGA, a region that has experienced repeated attacks by armed groups. Residents have expressed frustration over the slow response from security agencies, demanding better protection and swift action to rescue the hostages. The Kaduna State government has not yet released an official statement on the ongoing situation, leaving families and communities in limbo. Meanwhile, religious and civil society groups continue to urge prayers and peaceful advocacy for the safe return of the captives.
This incident underscores the growing threat of banditry in northern Nigeria, where communities often face attacks with little or no immediate intervention. The abduction of innocent worshippers during a sacred time highlights the vulnerability of civilians and the urgent need for enhanced security measures. As the week-long captivity continues, hopes remain high for a peaceful resolution and the safe return of the 37 Ariko residents. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria’s rural communities.
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