Plateau Attack: Atleast 12 killed, Several Injured On Palm Sunday

Tension has gripped parts of Plateau State following a fresh wave of violence that has heightened security concerns among residents.

Communities in Jos, particularly within Jos North Local Government Area, are now under increased security watch as authorities move swiftly to contain the situation and prevent further escalation.

The incident has triggered widespread anxiety, disrupted daily activities, and drawn urgent responses from both the state government and security agencies.

What Happened

Several residents were killed after gunmen opened fire on people in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos North LGA of Plateau State.

The attack occurred around 8pm on Sunday at a popular bar in the community, where victims were reportedly caught in sporadic gunfire from unidentified armed men suspected to be cultists.

The assailants opened fire indiscriminately, leaving multiple casualties and several others injured. Those wounded were rushed to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment.

In response, troops under Operation Enduring Peace were immediately deployed to the area. Security operatives have since cordoned off major access routes, restricting movement while launching a coordinated operation to track down the attackers and prevent further violence.

Casualties And Scale Of The Attack

At least 12 residents have been confirmed dead following the attack, with several others sustaining varying degrees of injuries.

The incident has added to growing concerns over recurring violence in Plateau State, as communities continue to grapple with insecurity and loss of lives. Authorities are yet to provide a final casualty figure as investigations and rescue efforts continue.

Government Response And Security Measures

The Plateau State Government has imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area following a deadly attack on Sunday that left several residents dead and many others injured in the Gari Ya Waye community of Angwan Rukuba.

The incident, which occurred late on Sunday night, triggered widespread tension across the city, prompting swift action from state authorities.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the government condemned what it described as a “barbaric and unprovoked attack on innocent citizens.”
The curfew took effect from midnight on Sunday and will remain in force until April 1, 2026.

Government officials say the measure is necessary to prevent further breakdown of law and order while security agencies work to track down the perpetrators.

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang assured residents that security operatives have been deployed to restore calm and protect lives and property. Citizens were urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by providing information that could aid ongoing investigations.

The attack also had immediate implications for academic activities at the University of Jos, which hosts a significant number of staff and students residing in the affected area. In a separate advisory, the institution announced the postponement of all examinations scheduled for Monday, March 30, and Tuesday, March 31.

Deputy Registrar Emmanuel Madugu, speaking on behalf of the Registrar, advised members of the university community to exercise extreme caution, avoid early-morning movements, and promptly report any suspicious activity to the University Security Division.

University management said it is working closely with security agencies to monitor developments and ensure the safety of students and staff. Further updates are expected as the situation evolves.

The recent violence adds to ongoing concerns about security in parts of Plateau State, where communities have faced recurring attacks in recent years. For now, authorities are appealing for calm as investigations continue.

UNIJOS Suspends Exams Over Security Fears

The University of Jos has officially rescheduled examinations earlier fixed for Monday and Tuesday following the attack on Angwan Rukuba community.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations, Emmanuel Madugu.

“The Vice Chancellor has directed that all examinations scheduled to hold on Monday and Tuesday will be rescheduled.

“This is in view of the Sunday night attack by gunmen on residents of Angwan Rukuba and the consequential tensions it has generated in and around the area,” he said.

Students and staff have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary movements, and report any suspicious activities to the university’s security unit.

The decision underscores the immediate impact of the violence on education and daily life, as authorities prioritise safety amid the unfolding security situation.