March 31, (THEWILL) — The Plateau State is on edge following a deadly attack in Gari Ya Waye community, Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, where no fewer than 28 persons were killed and several others injured when suspected gunmen stormed the area and opened fire on residents.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday night, March 29, 2026, around 7:50 p.m., disrupted Palm Sunday activities and threw the community into panic as residents fled for safety amid sustained gunfire from the attackers, who reportedly escaped after the assault.
Youth leaders in the area confirmed the casualty figure, stating that at least 28 bodies were recovered from the scene and nearby hospitals, while several injured victims are currently receiving treatment.
Eyewitnesses and community leaders said the attackers operated in a coordinated manner, unleashing heavy gunfire that forced residents to flee. Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army, were later deployed to restore order and secure the area.
The Zonal Coordinator of the Plateau Youth Council, Samson Chiroma, described the incident as “well-coordinated and devastating,” alleging that prior threats were circulated on social media before the attack.
He called on authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and bring perpetrators to justice.
Also reacting, the Jos North Chairman of the Plateau Youth Council, Ambassador Paul Mancha, condemned the attack, describing it as deliberate and carefully executed. He urged security agencies to act decisively while commending youth leaders for their efforts to prevent reprisals.
Similarly, Chairman of the Coalition of Youth Leaders for Good Governance, Phillip Nanbut Bako, described the killings as tragic and unacceptable, warning that continued attacks without accountability could heighten tensions in the state.
In response, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs Joyce Ramnap, announced the imposition of a 48-hour curfew on Jos North, effective from midnight on Sunday, March 29, to Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
She said the decision was taken in collaboration with security agencies to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“The Plateau State Government in conjunction with security agencies has imposed a 48-hour curfew within Jos North LGA to stabilize the situation and protect lives and property,” she said.
She condemned the attack, describing it as unprovoked, and assured that security operations had been intensified to track down those responsible and prevent a recurrence.
In a related development, the University of Jos has rescheduled its ongoing examinations due to the security situation. Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations, Mr Emmanuel Madugu, said the decision was taken to ensure the safety of students and staff.
He confirmed that examinations scheduled for Monday and Tuesday have been postponed, while other academic and hostel activities have been adjusted as precautionary measures.
Security presence has since been reinforced across affected communities as authorities continue efforts to restore normalcy and reassure residents. The state government reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice for victims and sustaining peace in Jos North and the surrounding areas.
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