A heartbreaking report has emerged from Kaduna State following the disclosure that 17 worshippers abducted during an attack on three churches in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area, reportedly died while in captivity.
The victims were among 37 worshippers kidnapped when armed men attacked three churches in Ariko on April 5, 2026, during Easter Sunday services.
According to information disclosed by Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria (CSWN), the attackers abducted worshippers, leaving families and communities devastated.
Of the 37 people taken away, 12 reportedly managed to escape at different times, while 17 died in captivity. The remaining eight eventually regained their freedom after spending approximately five months with their abductors.
The disclosure was made by Reverend Dr Yunusa Nmadu, Chief Executive Officer of Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria.
Six Abductees Reportedly Die in Awon Village
In another disturbing development, six people abducted from Awon village, also in Kachia Local Government Area, reportedly died while being held by their captors.
Eleven people were reportedly kidnapped from the community on April 20, 2026.
According to the earlier CSWN disclosure, one person escaped, six died, while four others remained in captivity after more than six months.
Subsequent reports, however, indicated that the death toll among the Awon abductees may have risen to eight, with two people still being held.
The situation has heightened concerns about the prolonged captivity of kidnapping victims and the worsening security situation in parts of Kaduna State.
Growing Concerns Over Insecurity in Kaduna
The latest revelations have renewed concerns about the safety of residents, particularly in communities affected by repeated attacks and kidnappings.
The deaths of the abducted worshippers have also raised questions about the fate of other victims whose cases may not have received widespread public attention.
Many families continue to endure the pain and uncertainty of having loved ones in captivity, while others have reportedly received the devastating news of their deaths.< /p>
Residents and concerned Nigerians are calling for stronger security measures, improved rescue operations and greater attention to communities facing repeated attacks.
The tragedy has also renewed calls for government at all levels to intensify efforts to protect lives and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
May the souls of the deceased rest in peace, and may the remaining abductees regain their freedom.
Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria (CSWN), Vanguard and other Nigerian media reports.
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