Arrests have been made in connection with the killing of four persons by a gunman during a Christmas carol service in a Catholic church at Nindem Village in Jema’a local government area of Kaduna State.
This was made known by Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State in a statement issued by his aide, Samuel Aruwan, on Saturday.
Investigation into the killing, it was also said, was still going on.
The attack which was carried out at about 1.00 p.m. on Friday left some other people injured apart from those killed.
Describing the development as a serious setback to the pervading peaceful atmosphere in the state in recent time, the governor said all stakeholders should help uphold peace by working to avoid escalation and by supporting the security forces.
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While commiserating with families of the victims of the attack, he called for calm.
The statement by the governor’s aide reads in part: “Security forces have informed the Kaduna State government that there was an attack in Nimdem Village on the night of Friday, 22nd December 2017.
“The government was further briefed that arrests have been made and investigation is ongoing.
“The government condemns this incident, and calls on all stakeholders to help uphold peace by working to avoid escalation and by supporting the security forces.
“Government commiserates with the families of the victims in this sad moment. The grief and pain these acts of violence leave in their wake can be devastating. It is important that all communities stand firm against any threat to peace, and reject those who might want to reprise the terrible events …
“Government appeals for calm as security forces take action to restore peace and stability. Nobody should be allowed to truncate the right of citizens to live in peace and enjoy safety, or thwart their legitimate expectations of celebrating Christmas and the New Year in peace.”