Bloody Easter in Benue, Kaduna Despite Tinubu's Security Pledges
In a tragic turn of events, Easter Sunday was marred by violent attacks across multiple Nigerian states, defying government assurances of enhanced security measures. Despite President Bola Tinubu's pledges to curb insecurity, communities in Benue, Kaduna, and Borno faced brutal assaults that resulted in numerous fatalities and abductions.
Benue Community Ravaged by Gunmen
In Benue State, at least 17 individuals lost their lives when armed assailants stormed the Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area. The attack, which coincided with Easter celebrations, saw gunmen open fire on villagers, setting houses ablaze and displacing many residents. Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan (rtd), Director-General of the Benue Bureau for Homeland Security, confirmed the incident, highlighting the persistent insecurity plaguing the state's rural areas.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack as "heinous" and unacceptable, pledging to strengthen security measures. Local sources reported that the community had forewarned authorities about the planned assault days in advance, yet no preventive action was taken. Timothy Adi, chairman of Gwer local government council, confirmed that nine bodies were recovered, with a tenth victim in critical condition.
Kaduna Churches Targeted in Easter Assault
Similarly, terrorists attacked the Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, targeting two Christian worship centres during Easter services. At least seven persons were killed, and several others were abducted. The affected churches include the First ECWA Church and St. Augustine Catholic Church.
Mark Bawa, councillor representing Awon Ward, described how the attackers operated for about an hour without resistance, exploiting poor telecommunications coverage in the area. This incident follows a similar abduction in Kurmin Wali community just two months prior, raising concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities in Southern Kaduna.
Army Rescues 31 Worshippers in Kaduna
In a contrasting development, the Nigerian Army announced that its troops foiled a terrorist attack and rescued 31 civilians abducted during an Easter church service in Ariko village. According to a statement, troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight, forcing them to abandon the hostages. The army also recovered the remains of five victims killed by the assailants and has intensified pursuit operations to track the fleeing elements.
Borno Community Attacked by Suspected Boko Haram
In Borno State, suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Awapul community in Chibok Local Government Area, burning houses and shops. ASP Nahum Daso, spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, confirmed no casualties but noted significant property destruction. This attack occurred less than 24 hours after assaults on an IDP camp in Damasak and a police headquarters in Nganzai, where four police officers and one hunter were killed.
Religious and Political Leaders React
Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, issued a stark warning in his Easter message, describing Nigeria as drifting dangerously amid "endless turbulence." He criticized the political elite for failing to fulfill promises and highlighted the growing distrust in government institutions. Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed optimism that Nigeria's insecurity would soon give way to peace, urging unity and faith among citizens.
Criticism of Government Response
The #FixPolitics Initiative condemned the Federal Government's delayed and inadequate response to the Palm Sunday killings in Plateau State, warning that such inaction normalizes mass violence. The group emphasized that leadership in times of crisis must be timely and decisive, calling for more substantive actions beyond mere condemnations.
These Easter attacks underscore the escalating security challenges in Nigeria, with rural communities bearing the brunt of violence despite repeated government assurances. As the nation grapples with these crises, the calls for effective governance and robust security measures grow louder.
