By Paul Daniel l June 1, 2026
KADUNA, NIGERIA — Panic and grief swept through a community in Kaduna State after armed terrorists attacked a community during evening prayers, killing many worshipper and abducting several others in the latest wave of violence to hit northwestern Nigeria.
According to local sources, the gunmen stormed the community while worshippers were gathered for prayers, opening fire and causing chaos before forcibly taking several residents into captivity. The attackers reportedly operated for an extended period before fleeing into nearby forests with their victims.
Residents said the assault left the community traumatized, with families desperately seeking information about the whereabouts of those kidnapped. Community members described scenes of confusion and fear as worshippers scrambled for safety during the attack.
Security personnel were reportedly deployed to the area following the incident, while efforts were launched to track down the attackers and rescue the abducted victims. Authorities have not yet released a full list of those kidnapped, and investigations into the attack remain ongoing.
The assault highlights the continuing security challenges facing Kaduna State, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted villages, religious gatherings, schools, and travelers. Kidnappings for ransom and deadly raids have become a persistent threat in several parts of the state despite ongoing military operations against criminal networks. Similar attacks in Kaduna have resulted in deaths and mass abductions, underscoring the region's fragile security situation.
Community leaders condemned the attack and called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities from recurring violence. Religious leaders also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as rescue operations continue.
The latest incident comes amid renewed concerns about insecurity across northern Nigeria, where bandit groups and other armed factions continue to carry out attacks on rural communities, often leaving behind casualties, displacement, and widespread fear. Security analysts warn that sustained efforts will be required to dismantle criminal networks responsible for kidnappings and attacks across the region.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not announced any arrests in connection with the mosque attack, while search-and-rescue efforts for the abducted victims remained underway.