Bandits abducted over 100 worshippers on Sunday after attacking multiple churches in Kurmin Wali area of Kajuru local government area of Kaduna state.
The attack occurred during church services when the assailants reportedly stormed the churches and forced congregants to follow them.
A source with family members among the victims told Sahara Reporters that the attackers struck several churches simultaneously.
The source said about 10 people considered vulnerable were later released by the bandits.
Authorities and security agencies in the area have been notified, while details of the incident are still emerging.
Kaduna state has witnessed repeated deadly attacks by bandits in recent months.
On January 3, bandits killed four members of a family during an overnight attack in Kachia town, southern Kaduna.
The attack occurred near the newly established Federal University of Applied Science, the headquarters of Kachia local government area.
A family member identified the victims as Bitrus Bahago, his wife Justina Bitrus Bahago, their son Ibrahim Bitrus Bahago, and another relative, Adam Waziri.
“They are all four killed by the bandits,” the source said.
The source said the attackers arrived in large numbers and opened fire on residents, leaving several others injured.
The injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment..