Plateau State: Death Toll Rises to 33 in Jos Attack, Protesters Demand Justice

At least 33 people were killed in an attack on Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State on Palm Sunday, with the death toll rising after several victims succumbed to injuries in hospital. The assault, which initially claimed 28 lives, has deepened tensions in the region, where recurring violence has left communities on edge.

The solemn mass burial of victims at the ECWA Church was disrupted by angry women and youths who protested outside the church auditorium. Demonstrators demanded the immediate release of three young men arrested by the military in connection with the incident, alleging they were unjustly detained while holding sticks. The protest underscored growing frustration over perceived delays in justice and the failure to apprehend those responsible for the violence.

In a separate incident, gunmen ambushed and killed a 300-level university student in Dum Village, Bachi District of Riyom Local Government Area, further escalating concerns over insecurity in the state.

Plateau State government officials have pledged to investigate the attacks thoroughly. Chief of Staff to the Governor, Jeremiah Satmak, who represented the government at the burial, assured bereaved families that efforts were underway to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. He also confirmed the release of the three detained youths and urged residents to remain vigilant and prayerful.

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State chapter, Rev. Gomwalk Dunkan, emphasized that sustainable peace could only be achieved through justice. “There can be no peace without justice. Government must ensure that justice is served for lasting peace to return,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Stephen Pwajok, and the member representing Barkin Ladi Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Dickson Chollom, called for a thorough investigation into the suspect arrested over the deadly attack on Pommwol village in Barkin Ladi. They demanded that the suspect face the full wrath of the law if found culpable.

The attacks have reignited fears of renewed ethnic and religious violence in Plateau State, a region that has long grappled with communal clashes. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to restoring peace and security, but residents remain wary as the cycle of violence continues to disrupt lives and livelihoods.