Five killed in Kano church attack as survivors, pastor recount horror

Five worshippers were killed on Sunday morning when suspected Boko Haram militants opened fire during a service at Victory Chapel International Church, located at 15 Yankatako Road in the Naibawa area of Kano State.

The attack, which occurred at about 10:13 a.m., also left several others injured and sent waves of panic through the state.

Among the dead was the pastor’s son, Benjamin Ogwuche, whose loss was confirmed by the church’s presiding pastor.

Rev. Sam Ogwuche, speaking with reporters after the incident, expressed grief but said he drew strength from his faith.

“My son was not so fortunate to have escaped from the attackers. But I know he is resting in the bosom of the Lord,” he said.

Worshippers described scenes of terror as gunmen stormed the church through the main entrance, shouting religious phrases while firing in all directions.

Dennis Chukwudi, one of the survivors, said the attackers appeared intent on causing maximum casualties.

“They came in shouting: ‘God is great, God is great’ in Arabic while shooting sporadically everywhere. I could not believe what was happening, but I had to run,” he said.

Another member of the church who is the leader of the evangelical unit, James-Mike Imhansoloeva, said he was seated in the main auditorium when the first shots rang out.

“The whole place went into confusion. The first thing that came to my mind was my wife in the children’s section,” James-Mike said, he ran toward the children’s department despite the chaos.

“When I got there, everyone was terrified. I helped my wife and some of the mothers and children escape through the windows. That was the only way out because the shooting was getting closer.”

Local sources reported that the militants fled shortly after the attack.

Boko Haram has reportedly claimed responsibility, alleging that church leaders were converting their Muslim children to Christianity. Authorities have not yet confirmed the group’s statement.

A security official who spoke on condition of anonymity warned that the incident reflects a troubling escalation.

“The activities of Boko Haram are becoming increasingly dangerous, and the Federal Government and the international community need to act quickly,” the officer said.

The attack has rekindled concerns among residents of Naibawa and surrounding communities, many of whom are calling for increased protection around places of worship.