The Plateau State chapter of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has confirmed that four of its members were killed and 10 others missing following Sunday night’s attack on Anguwan Rukuba in Jos North LGA.

At least, 27 people were killed in the incident. The attackers, reportedly dressed in military camouflage and riding motorcycles, stormed Angwan Rukuba around 7.30pm on Sunday, opening fire on residents and causing widespread panic as people fled for safety.

The attack initially left 14 people dead. Angry youths later staged protests, blocking roads and attacking some motorcycle riders and passengers. Sources said 13 critically injured victims later died in the hospital, bringing the death toll to 27.

In a statement signed by its secretary, Dr Salim Musa Umar, the group said reports from Muslim communities revealed that its members were also among the victims.

“Following thorough investigation and reports received from Muslim communities, we have discovered that four Muslims were killed while ten are still missing.

“The bodies of the victims have been identified at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), while the ten missing persons remain unaccounted for, with their families having no contact with them since Sunday and their phone numbers switched off,” the statement said.

The group added that two injured victims are currently receiving treatment at JUTH and that it is in contact with affected families.

JNI condoled with the bereaved families and urged residents to remain calm, while commending government efforts to restore order.

Curfew relaxed in Jos North

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Government has relaxed the 48-hour curfew it earlier imposed on Jos North Local Government Area, following Sunday’s attack on Angwan Rukuba.

Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Commissioner for Information and Communication, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

“Effective from 1st April, 2026, the curfew will now be observed from 7am to 3pm. Residents are hereby permitted to carry out their lawful activities, within the stipulated hours,” Ramnap said.

Streets, markets deserted

Our correspondent, who visited some communities in Jos, observed that marketplaces and major roads were largely deserted on Tuesday.

Ahmadu Bello Way, Murtala Muhammed Way, Bauchi Road, Bauchi Junction and British American Junction were among the affected areas.

Security personnel, including police, soldiers, NSCDC operatives, vigilantes, and others, were stationed at checkpoints and seen patrolling the city in vehicles to enforce compliance.

Vehicles, particularly those travelling through Jos to other destinations, were subjected to security checks at designated points.

A resident, Jamilu Hassan, said the curfew helped de-escalate tensions but lamented its impact on livelihoods.

“The government should find a lasting solution so people can go about their lawful businesses without fear,” he said.

We’re acquiring weapons to ‘smash criminals’ in real time – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to hunt down those behind the recent killings in Plateau and Kaduna states, describing the attacks as barbaric and cowardly.

Aside from the killings in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North LGA, on Sunday, 13 wedding guests were also shot dead, with several others abducted, in a separate attack on Kahir village in Kagarko LGA of Kaduna State.

In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president condemned the Kaduna attack as an affront to national values and directed security operatives to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators. He also warned against the spread of misinformation capable of escalating tensions.

Tinubu disclosed that his administration is acquiring advanced equipment to enable security agencies to track and neutralise criminals in real time.

Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang said Plateau would not bow to fear, pledging resilience and unity.

He directed strict enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycle operations within the Jos Greater Master Plan and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

The Senate also reacted, mourning the victims and calling for urgent intervention.

The Red Chamber directed the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the attacks and bring those responsible to justice.

Following a motion by Senator Diket Plang, lawmakers called for humanitarian assistance for displaced victims and urged the establishment of military bases in affected communities.

The Senate further advocated increased recruitment into security agencies and resolved to send a delegation to assess the situation and sympathise with the victims. (Daily Trust)

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