Tension flared in Plateau State on Monday morning as hundreds of residents took to the streets in protest, defying a 48-hour curfew imposed by the government following a deadly attack in Jos North Local Government Area.
The unrest comes after gunmen invaded Gari Ya Waye community in Angwan Rukuba on Sunday evening, opening fire on residents and leaving several people dead. The sudden assault threw the area into chaos, with many fleeing for safety as gunshots rang out.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the community without warning and began shooting indiscriminately before escaping. Security operatives, including soldiers, later arrived at the scene to restore calm.
In response, the state government announced a 48-hour curfew across Jos North to contain the situation. The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, confirmed the directive, describing the attack as tragic and the measure as necessary to prevent further violence.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang also condemned the incident, calling it barbaric and unprovoked, while assuring residents that security agencies had been deployed to track down those responsible.
Despite the restrictions, angry residents flooded the streets on Monday, demanding urgent action to stop the recurring attacks. Protesters gathered in Angwan Rukuba, chanting and expressing frustration over what they described as the government’s inability to protect lives.
Some demonstrators argued that imposing a curfew was not a lasting solution to the insecurity in the area. One protester claimed residents even chased away security personnel, accusing them of failing to respond effectively.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Police Command confirmed that at least 14 people, including two women, were killed in the attack. Police Commissioner Bassey Ewah said officers had launched a manhunt for the suspects and were working with other security agencies to restore order.
According to the police, 12 victims were found dead at the scene, while two more bodies were later recovered from nearby bushes during search operations. The remains have been deposited in the mortuary, and investigations are ongoing.
However, local sources have given a higher casualty figure, with some claiming that as many as 27 people may have died, including those who reportedly succumbed to injuries in hospital.
Authorities say joint security operations are ongoing in surrounding areas, with intensified efforts to track down the attackers and prevent further breakdown of law and order. Residents have also been urged to provide any useful information that could assist in the investigation.
