Photo: Morning Star News
Easter Sunday worship services in the town of Ariko, Kaduna State, were violently disrupted when gunmen attacked two churches, killing 12 Christians. According to witnesses, Fulani rebels opened fire on followers of Jesus who had been worshipping at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and the St. Augustine Catholic Church. In addition to the fatalities, dozens of others were kidnapped and both church buildings sustained damages.
Residents reported that as many as 30 militants surrounded the town. The gunmen specifically targeted the ECWA congregation first before moving directly to the Catholic church. The coordinated movement between the two sites suggests that the attacks were carefully planned.
Following the incidents in Ariko, the Nigerian army pursued the attackers, resulting in a firefight. The army reported that as the terrorists fled, 31 of the kidnapped hostages were left behind. The number of individuals still being held captive remains unknown.
Violence during Christian holidays is a tragically common occurrence in Nigeria, as well as in other specific regions of the world. More details about the atrocities experienced by our Nigerian family in Christ can be obtained by reviewing VOMC's written and video-recorded reports at our country profile.
- Prayerfully uphold the families and friends of those who were tragically killed during these recent incidents, asking the Lord to tenderly minister to them by providing His healing presence, comfort and strength as they grieve such painful loss.
- May Nigeria's authorities receive wisdom, courage and integrity as they endeavour to recover the kidnapped victims and bring those responsible for committing the crimes to justice.
- Pray that the hope and transformative power of the Risen Christ would spread throughout the region, leading many – including those who carried out the attacks – to faith in Him.
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