Gunmen launched coordinated attacks across several Nigerian states during Easter celebrations, killing multiple people and displacing residents, despite recent assurances from authorities aimed at preventing further violence.
The latest incidents occurred just one week after attackers killed civilians in Angwan Rukuba, Plateau State, on Palm Sunday. Government condemnations and the deployment of security personnel to flashpoints failed to stop the renewed bloodshed.
In Benue State, at least 17 people were reported killed in Mbalom, Gwer East Local Government Area, during an हमला on Sunday. Residents said gunmen stormed the community, opened fire and set homes ablaze, forcing many to flee. Several people remain missing.
Jacob Gbamwuan, director-general of the Benue State Bureau for Homeland Security, confirmed the attack. Gov. Hyacinth Alia described the killings as “heinous” and pledged to bring those responsible to justice.
Police spokesperson Udeme Edet said investigations are ongoing.
Residents said the community had received prior warnings of a planned attack and alerted authorities. A local source said youths initially repelled the attackers earlier in the day before they returned at night to carry out the assault.
In Kaduna State, gunmen attacked Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area, targeting two churches during Easter services. At least seven people were killed and several others abducted, according to local officials.
Mark Bawa, a ward councillor, said the attackers surrounded the area and fired on worshippers for about an hour before fleeing. Poor telecommunications coverage was blamed for the delayed response.
However, the Nigerian Army said troops responded to a distress call, engaged the attackers and rescued 31 abducted civilians. The military said five victims were killed before troops intervened, and operations are ongoing to track the assailants.
In Borno State, suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked Awapul community in Chibok Local Government Area early Sunday, destroying homes and shops. Police said no casualties were recorded, though residents fled to safer areas.
The attack followed another assault less than 24 hours earlier on an internally displaced persons camp in Damasak and a police facility in Nganzai, where four officers and one local hunter were killed. Authorities said the attackers used rocket-propelled grenades and other weapons before being repelled.
Religious and political leaders expressed concern over the escalating violence.
Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah warned that Nigeria faces deepening instability, citing widespread insecurity, displacement and economic hardship. He urged urgent action to restore public trust and improve governance.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed sympathy for victims and said the country would overcome its security challenges.
Meanwhile, the #FixPolitics Initiative criticized the federal government’s response to recent attacks, calling it delayed and inadequate. The group said repeated condemnations without decisive action risk normalizing violence and leaving citizens vulnerable.
