Ariko residents say victims held over 46 days after deadly Easter church attacks, urge urgent government and security intervention

Residents of Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have issued a desperate appeal to federal and state authorities to secure the release of 37 worshippers abducted during coordinated Easter Sunday attacks on churches in the area.

Community leaders disclosed that the victims have remained in captivity for more than 46 days, with their abductors demanding an alarming ransom of ₦1 billion and 35 motorcycles.

President of the Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA), Dr. Joseph David Ariko, said the agrarian community is overwhelmed and incapable of raising such an amount, stressing that only swift government intervention and intensified security operations can save the victims.

The abductions followed a violent assault by armed bandits on three churches—St. Augustine Catholic Church, ECWA Church, and Baptist Church—during Easter services. The attackers reportedly killed five worshippers and whisked away dozens, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

Dr. Ariko revealed that the kidnappers have maintained steady attack with the community, calling almost every two days to press their demands without any sign of negotiation.

“These are poor farming communities. There is no way we can meet ₦1 billion and provide 35 motorcycles,” he said.

He noted that the prolonged captivity of the victims has deepened fear and psychological trauma across the community, while families continue to grapple with emotional pain and financial strain.

Community leaders are now urging security agencies to scale up rescue efforts and calling on humanitarian organisations and concerned Nigerians to provide support to affected families.

The incident underscores escalating insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where mass abductions and attacks on places of worship have become an increasing concern.