Thousands of mourners gathered in Kaduna State on Saturday for the funeral of 27 Christians killed in a deadly attack on Naridon community in Kauru Local Government Area, as church leaders renewed calls for stronger government action against recurring violence in southern Kaduna.
The victims, who were reportedly killed during a midnight assault on July 26, were laid to rest during a solemn funeral Mass organised by the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan. Clergy and worshippers from different Christian denominations attended the service in a show of unity and support for the bereaved families.
Speaking after the funeral, the spokesperson for the Diocese of Kafanchan, Rev. Abai Peter, said the attackers invaded the community shortly before midnight and unleashed violence that lasted for nearly two hours. He said homes were destroyed, many residents sustained injuries, and several families were displaced by the attack.
According to reports from Christian advocacy group Open Doors, the victims included 10 women and 11 children, among them a three-year-old child. The attack has deepened concerns over the safety of vulnerable communities in southern Kaduna, where repeated assaults have claimed hundreds of lives in recent years.
During his homily, Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi described the killings as a criminal act that demanded decisive government intervention. He rejected suggestions that the attack was linked to communal disputes or reprisals, insisting that authorities must do more to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens.
“This had nothing to do with reprisal or boundary disputes. It is an act of criminality that government must work harder to prevent because this only happens where there is no respect for the rule of law,” the bishop said.
He urged Christians not to give in to fear, bitterness or despair, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith while praying for peace and justice. The bishop also reminded grieving families that hope remained central to the Christian faith despite the painful loss of loved ones.
Religious leaders and mourners used the occasion to call on the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen protection for communities facing repeated attacks across southern Kaduna and other parts of northern Nigeria. They stressed the need for improved security measures to prevent further loss of lives and displacement.
Nigeria has continued to witness deadly attacks by armed groups across several northern states. According to Open Doors’ 2026 World Watch List, the country recorded the highest number of Christians killed for their faith worldwide during the reporting period, with thousands of deaths linked to insurgency, banditry and communal violence.
