Nigerian troops rescue 31 hostages after deadly Easter church attack

Nigerian soldiers have freed 31 worshippers taken hostage during Easter church services in Kaduna state, following a brutal attack that left at least five dead. Gunmen stormed churches in Ariko village, approximately 100 kilometers north of Abuja, targeting congregations during celebrations. Security forces engaged the attackers, forcing them to retreat and abandon their captives. Local church leaders, however, reported a higher death toll, with seven fatalities. The targeted congregations inclu