Plateau State Government Imposes 48-Hour Curfew Following Tragic Palm Sunday Attack in Jos

By Babatunji Wusu

A wave of violence has once again struck Plateau State, leaving at least 40 people feared dead and numerous others injured in a brutal night-time assault. The tragedy unfolded in the Gari Ya Waye community, located within the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos, on the night of Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026. Reports indicate that the attack began at approximately 7:50 p.m., as suspected gunmen invaded the neighborhood and opened fire on unsuspecting residents, triggering a mass exodus as families fled in terror under the cover of darkness.

While the exact death toll is still being verified, a somber scene met those who visited the area on Monday morning, March 30, 2026. At least 26 bodies were counted in the Angwan Rukuba axis alone. The total number of casualties remains fluid, as many victims were rushed to various hospitals and mortuaries, while others were reportedly carried away during the height of the chaos. Security operatives, including personnel from the Nigerian Army, arrived on the scene by 8:45 p.m. on Sunday night to restore a fragile calm and secure the perimeter against further incursions.

In immediate response to the bloodshed, the Plateau State Government has officially imposed a 48-hour curfew on the Jos North local government area. The restriction, which took effect at midnight following the attack, is scheduled to remain in place until April 1, 2026. This measure is intended to stabilize the region and prevent a total breakdown of law and order while security agencies intensify their search for the perpetrators.

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has strongly condemned the killings, describing the event as a “barbaric and unprovoked” act of cowardice. The Governor assured the public that the government is working tirelessly with security stakeholders to ensure those responsible are brought to justice. As tension lingers in the state capital, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities during this period of mourning and heightened security.

What long-term security strategies should the state government adopt to protect communities from these recurring night-time attacks?

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