Two men were killed and seven abducted when Islamist gunmen descended on a Christian community in Kaduna State, Nigeria, on 20 April.
Around 30 extremists rode into Awon in Kachia Local Government Area (LGA) on at least 15 motorcycles at 9am, before splitting into two groups and firing indiscriminately.
Residents Joseph Sule and Awilo Madugu were killed, and another suffered critical injuries. The terrorists kidnapped Gift Victor, Hannatu Yusuf, Salina Sam, Silvia Sam, Dogarah Maisamari, Hassana Bulus, and Joy Samaila.
A community member, who asked not to be named, called on the government and security agencies to take stronger action to protect residents from what he described as “deliberate attempts to completely wipe away the people from their ancestral home”.
He added, “With the new wave of attacks in the area, residents are living in fear following the activities of terrorists who are killing and abducting people almost on a daily basis, thereby making life unbearable.”
The southern part of Kaduna State is predominantly Christian, and has suffered greatly from Islamist violence.
Residents say the latest assault has left the community traumatised, with anger growing over the inadequate and delayed response by security agencies to most of the attacks.
The attack comes just over a week after Islamists attacked Easter Sunday worship services at two churches in Ariko, also in Kachia LGA. Seven worshippers were killed and another 31 Christians kidnapped.
How you can pray
How you can pray
Ask the Lord to draw close to all those who mourn Joseph and Awilo, and pray that the seven kidnapped residents will soon be reunited with their loved ones. Pray for the Lord’s protection over His people in Kaduna State, and ask that they will continue to turn to Him as their refuge and strength.
