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From Sola Ojo, Abuja
No fewer than 31 civil society leaders and organisations have condemned killings and abductions in Ariko community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State. They accused authorities of misinformation and suppression of facts. In a statement issued on Friday under the Civil Society for Good Governance and Accountability, the groups described the Easter Sunday attack as a devastating tragedy.
They said five worshippers were killed and 38 abducted when gunmen attacked ECWA and Catholic churches during services.
The coalition rejected claims by the Nigerian Army that 31 victims had been rescued, insisting that all abducted persons remain in captivity, with families reportedly still in contact with the kidnappers.
Citing the Kuturmi Unity Development Association (KUDA), the group also maintained that all abducted persons are still in captivity. They also alleged a pattern of denial in Kaduna State, referencing a January 2026 incident in Kurmin Wali, Kajuru LGA, where authorities initially denied mass abductions. The groups condemned the suspension of Kachia Legislative Council Speaker, Mark Bawa, for speaking on the attack, describing it as an assault on democracy, and demanded his reinstatement. On insecurity, they said 74 communities in Kachia LGA have been deserted, while listing other recent attacks in Zunturum, Kahir and Maro Kasuwa. The coalition urged security agencies to prioritise rescue efforts, protect affected communities and ensure accountability, warning against growing impunity and misinformation. Signatories to the statement include House of Justice, Middle Belt Concern, Atrocities Watch Africa, Southern Kaduna Indigenous Progressive Forum, and rights activist Prof. Chidi Odinkalu.
