What was meant to be a night of celebration has ended in grief and devastation after gunmen attacked a wedding in Kahir village, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing at least 13 guests and abducting several others.
The attack, which occurred late Sunday night, reportedly began around 11:47 p.m., according to a community leader, Musa Adamu. Witnesses said the assailants, armed with sophisticated weapons, stormed the venue in large numbers and opened fire on guests gathered inside the hall.
Panic and confusion followed as attendees scrambled for safety. Many were struck by bullets, leaving several injured. Victims were rushed to the General Hospital in Kagarko, while those with critical wounds were transferred to medical facilities in Kaduna for urgent care.
Residents said the attackers operated for nearly an hour without interruption. During the assault, they reportedly looted nearby shops, carting away food items, provisions, and drugs from a local chemist.
Police authorities in Kaduna have confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing. Officials say efforts are underway to determine the exact number of abducted victims while security operatives have launched a manhunt to track down those responsible.
Kaduna remains one of several states in Nigeria’s North-West grappling with persistent attacks by armed groups commonly referred to as bandits. Similar violence has been reported across neighbouring states, including Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi, where communities continue to face raids, abductions, and killings.
In recent years, these attacks have grown more brazen—targeting not just villages but moments of joy like weddings and gatherings, leaving behind heartbreak and fear.
For the people of Kahir village, a night that should have been filled with laughter and celebration has instead become one of mourning and unanswered questions.
