By Rareview
JOS, Plateau — The Plateau State Government has imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area following a deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba community that has intensified concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security situation and drawn reactions from both local and international actors.
The curfew, announced by the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, took effect from midnight of March 29 to April 1, 2026, after what officials described as a “tragic security incident” that left multiple residents dead and several others injured.
“Following the tragic security incident that occurred at Gari Ya Waye community, Angwan Rukuba… resulting in the loss of lives, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries, the Plateau State Government… wishes to inform the general public of the imposition of a 48-hour curfew,” the statement read.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attack as “barbaric and unprovoked,” assuring residents that security agencies had been mobilised to apprehend those responsible.
Eyewitness accounts, however, painted a grim picture of the assault. Residents said gunmen, reportedly riding motorcycles, stormed the community on Sunday evening, opening fire indiscriminately on civilians.
A resident, John Caleb, said, “We have been badly hit in Angwa by unknown gunmen. So far, six people have been confirmed dead, and several other casualties are at the Luna Hospital by New Road. It’s very unfortunate.”
Another resident, Janet Pam, recounted the moment the attack unfolded. “I was in my house when I heard the first gunshot. At first, I ignored it, but when it came again, I stepped outside and saw gunmen on bikes shooting at people.
“They targeted those moving on the road and those selling by the roadside. Among those shot was my neighbour, who was returning from evening church service. This is pure terrorism.”
Security sources later confirmed that at least 12 people — including 10 men and two women — lost their lives in the attack, while several others sustained injuries.
The incident sparked unrest among youths in the area, who briefly blocked roads in protest before being dispersed by security forces.
The killings have also triggered strong reactions beyond Nigeria’s borders. A United States lawmaker, Riley Moore, condemned the attack, describing it as part of a disturbing pattern of violence during Christian religious observances.
“This Palm Sunday, reports from Nigeria indicate that at least 10 Christians were martyred in the city of Jos… This is sickening and unacceptable,” Moore said.
Similarly, an American missionary, Alex Barbir, criticised the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing authorities of failing to protect citizens.
“They just murdered over 10 people… innocent Christians on Palm Sunday. Tinubu, where are you as your people are slaughtered in the night?” Barbir said.
Domestically, political leaders have also voiced frustration. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan called for urgent and decisive action from security chiefs, particularly the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa.
“Angwan Rukuba is another brutal reminder that Nigerians remain unprotected… Enough of condolences. Nigerians want action, protection, and results,” she said.
The latest attack underscores a troubling resurgence of violence in Plateau State, where communities have faced repeated assaults, kidnappings, and cattle rustling in recent years.
Just weeks earlier, at least 20 security operatives and vigilantes were reportedly killed in an ambush in Kanam Local Government Area. In 2025, coordinated attacks in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi left over 100 people dead, while Christmas Eve massacres in 2023 claimed more than 140 lives.
For many residents, the Angwan Rukuba killings represent not just another tragedy, but a continuation of a cycle of violence that has persisted despite repeated assurances from authorities.
As the curfew takes hold and security presence intensifies, attention is once again focused on whether decisive measures will finally be taken to stem the bloodshed and restore confidence in the state’s ability to protect its citizens.