by Isi Esene

The church bombing which occurred earlier today has sparked reprisal attacks by the youth of the area despite the best efforts of elders and officials of the Kaduna State government.

A mob mainly consisting of young people were reported to have poured into the streets to attack people believed to be Muslims. Sources say they carried dangerous weapons yelling, “Why the church?”

A suicide bomber had attempted to force his way into the church premises but was prevented from doing so. He reportedly slammed his car, which was believed to be rigged with explosives, against the church wall killing some people and injuring several others.

“At least three people are confirmed dead,” a rescue official said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to give out figures. The suicide bomber is reportedly among the people dead.

An eyewitness, Samuel Emmanuel spoke with the press saying, “All of a sudden it drove on high speed and rammed into the church wall, forcing its way into the church premises.

“Initially I thought the driver had lost control of the vehicle. Suddenly there was a huge explosion as the car reached the church building. It was dust, fire and smoke all over.”

The explosion reportedly occurred in the Malali area of the city. Kaduna, a major city in Nigeria’s north, has been previously hit by attacks blamed on Boko Haram.

Reuben Abati, the special adviser to the president on media and publicity has released a statement on behalf of President Goodluck Jonathan condemning the attacks and describing it as “barbaric and cruel”.

“The persistence of messengers of evil will not prevail over the will of the government and the people to secure peace and safety,” the statement read.