No fewer than 40 persons have been feared dead, with several others injured, following a deadly attack by suspected gunmen in Gari Ya Waye community, located in the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos.
The assault, which occurred on Sunday night, March 29, 2026 coinciding with Palm Sunday reportedly began at about 7:50 p.m., sending shockwaves through the community as residents fled amid sustained gunfire.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the attackers stormed the area and opened fire indiscriminately on unsuspecting residents before fleeing the scene. Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army, were said to have arrived approximately 55 minutes later, around 8:45 p.m., to restore order and secure the affected neighbourhoods.
A visit to the scene on Monday morning, March 30, revealed a grim toll, with at least 26 bodies counted within the Angwan Rukuba axis alone. However, the overall casualty figure remains uncertain, as several victims were reportedly taken away by fleeing relatives, while others are receiving treatment in hospitals or have been deposited in mortuaries across the area.
The attack has left the community in a state of heightened tension, with residents urged to remain vigilant as security agencies intensify operations to stabilize the situation.
In response, the Plateau State Government has imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North. The restriction, which took effect from midnight on March 29, is expected to remain in force until April 1, 2026, as authorities seek to prevent further escalation of violence.
Condemning the incident, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, described the killings as “barbaric and unprovoked,” assuring residents that security agencies are actively pursuing those responsible for the attack.
Authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive breakdown of casualties as investigations continue.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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