Over 30 others, including a pastor, have been abducted following a coordinated attack by gunmen on two churches in the Bakinpah-Maro community of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State.
The attack, which occurred during Sunday services, has left the community in fear and mourning. Eyewitnesses and local sources report that the assailants, numbering in the dozens, stormed both the ECWA and Catholic churches around 10 a.m., causing widespread chaos as worshippers fled for their lives.
Cafra Caino, the former chairman of Kajuru LGA, confirmed the incident and expressed his concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the region. Speaking to The Nation, Caino said, “The bandits came in large numbers and attacked the two churches, kidnapping many, including Bernard Gajera, a pastor.” He added that the attack has left the community devastated, especially as it comes after the Maro community had recently funded a security post to enhance law enforcement efforts in the area.
As of the time of this report, the Kaduna State Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the attack, leaving many unanswered questions about the fate of the victims and ongoing security efforts.
This latest incident adds to the growing list of violent attacks in Kajuru and other parts of Southern Kaduna, which have been plagued by banditry, kidnappings, and communal clashes. The insecurity in the region has disrupted farming activities and led to mass displacements, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
Local residents are calling on the government to take swift action to rescue those abducted and prevent future attacks. Efforts to secure the area have so far proved insufficient, as armed groups continue to target vulnerable communities with little resistance.
