Nollywood actor Zuby Michael has ignited public debate following his call for Christians to evacuate Jos, the capital of Nigeria’s Plateau State, after a deadly terrorist attack.
The actor’s statement came in response to an assault on the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos on Sunday, during which dozens of civilians were reported killed. Posting on his verified Instagram page, Michael urged, “Christians should leave Jos.” He concurrently stated that those responsible would eventually face justice.
The post generated significant and divided reactions across social media platforms. Critics argued that displacement is not a viable solution, highlighting that Christians form a substantial portion of the state’s population and have deep ancestral roots in the region. One user commented, “Leave their ancestral land and go where?… Christian communities should simply help them fight back. They need resources and support to fight back.” Others emphasized the practical impossibility of mass relocation, noting that many residents have established lives and livelihoods in the city. “Most of the people there have built everything in Jos. Where will they start from again?” another response read.
Conversely, some supported the actor’s sentiment as a reflection of frustration over persistent insecurity. Several commenters stressed that the issue transcends religion, framing it as a demand for citizen bravery and proactive governance. “Plateau originally is a Christian state. This is not even about religion but about the people being brave enough to push back bullies and terrorists and demand a proactive government,” one reply stated. A common thread among responses was a call for political accountability, with users urging voters to elect competent leaders and for the government to improve security measures.
The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State, which has a history of ethno-religious conflict and periodic attacks by armed groups. While the Nigerian military and security forces maintain a presence in Jos, repeated assaults have fueled public anxiety and debate over effective strategies for protection.
Michael’s comments have amplified national conversations about community defense, state responsibility, and the social consequences of violence. The debate now centers on whether the primary solution lies in evacuation, armed resistance by civilians, or a fundamental overhaul of regional security policy and leadership. The incident highlights the acute tensions in the region and the search for actionable responses to protect civilians.
