Nigerian troops have rescued 31 worshippers abducted during Easter services in Kaduna State after gunmen attacked churches, killing several people, the military said.

The incident occurred in Ariko, about 100 kilometres north of Abuja, where soldiers engaged the attackers in a gunfight, forcing them to flee and abandon the captives.

Authorities confirmed at least five deaths, while Caleb Bawa Ma’aji of the Christian Association of Nigeria said seven worshippers were killed.

The attack, which targeted Catholic and evangelical congregations, happened despite heightened Easter security.