Gunmen attack civilians leaving at least eleven dead in Angwan Rukuba Jos as authorities impose curfew

JOS, Nigeria — Tragedy struck Palm Sunday in the Gari Ya Waye area of Angwan Rukuba, served by Nigeria’s Catholic Archdiocese of Jos, as suspected gunmen carried out a brutal assault on civilians.

Eyewitnesses report that the attack occurred around 7:50 p.m. local time on March 29, leaving at least 11 people dead and several others injured.

Residents described a sudden and violent incursion, with attackers opening fire on unsuspecting victims before disappearing into the night.

Security forces, including personnel from the Nigerian Army, arrived nearly an hour later to secure the area and restore order.

Curfew Imposed as Authorities Respond

In the wake of the attack, the Plateau state government announced a 48-hour curfew across Jos North, effective from midnight on March 29 through April 1.

The measure aims to curb further violence and maintain law and order.

However, the curfew has complicated verification of casualties and conditions on the ground.

Many victims were either evacuated during the chaos or taken to nearby mortuaries, leaving accurate figures uncertain.

Church Leadership Calls for Verified Information

Archbishop Matthew Ishaya Audu spoke on March 30 to ACI Africa, urging caution in reportin

. He stressed the need to rely on verified information amid widespread social media speculation.

“It’s true that yesterday unarmed men attacked one place, and reports say about 11 people were killed, but we don’t know the details,” Audu explained.

He warned that misinformation could exacerbate tensions in an already fragile environment.

Concerns Over Curfew Management

The archbishop highlighted potential risks of the curfew.

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While intended to restore order, he cautioned that strict movement restrictions could inadvertently create vulnerabilities.

“If [the curfew] is not managed well, other people can take advantage, and then more killing will take place,” he said.

He called for heightened vigilance by security agencies to protect residents.

Timing Heightens Anxiety

The attack coincided with the start of Holy Week, intensifying fear among locals.

Despite circulating rumors, Audu refrained from attributing the violence to religious motives.

Instead, he encouraged residents—particularly Christians observing Holy Week—to pray and maintain hope.

Drawing on the spiritual message of Easter, he remarked, “The cross is only a way to the Resurrection… all the challenges of life, including what we are facing now, will become a thing of the past.”

Government Condemns Attack and Promises Justice

Plateau state Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang visited the affected community, describing the attack as “barbaric and unprovoked.”

He expressed solidarity with grieving families and vowed that those responsible would face justice.

The governor also pledged support for victims, including arranging dignified burials for the deceased and ensuring medical care for the injured.

He called on citizens, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to collaborate with authorities in restoring security.

Impact and Consequences

The attack underscores ongoing security challenges in Plateau state, a region prone to communal and ethno-religious violence.

The immediate consequences include loss of life, heightened fear, restricted movement due to curfew, and disruption of daily life.

Long-term effects may include further community tension, mistrust between residents and authorities, and challenges for law enforcement in maintaining stability.

What’s Next?

Authorities continue investigations to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

Residents are advised to remain calm, comply with the curfew, and provide any information that could aid security forces.

Meanwhile, church and community leaders are encouraging prayers and unity, hoping to prevent escalation of violence.

Summary

A violent attack in Angwan Rukuba left at least 11 dead and several injured, prompting a 48-hour curfew and widespread concern in Jos, Nigeria.

Archbishop Audu stressed caution against misinformation, while Governor Mutfwang condemned the assault and promised justice.

The event highlights Plateau state’s persistent security challenges and the need for vigilance, unity, and resilience among residents.

Bulleted Takeaways

• At least 11 people feared dead and several injured after gunmen attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos.
• Eyewitnesses describe sudden violence; security forces arrived roughly an hour later.
• Plateau state imposed a 48-hour curfew to prevent further unrest.
• Archbishop Matthew Ishaya Audu urges verified reporting to avoid misinformation.
• Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang vows justice and support for victims.
• Curfew management critical to preventing further attacks.
• Residents advised to stay calm, comply with authorities, and pray for peace.
• The incident adds to ongoing communal and ethno-religious tensions in Plateau state.