Mutfwang confirms 28 killed in Jos attack, vows action

Governor Caleb Mutfwang has confirmed the death of 28 people following a brutal attack on the Angwan Rukuba community (specifically the Gari Ya Waye area) in Jos North Local Government Area.The attack occurred on Sunday evening, March 29, 2026, around 7:30 p.m., as residents were observing Palm Sunday. Assailants reportedly entered the community and opened fire indiscriminately on law-abiding citizens.

Immediate Government ActionsIn a statewide broadcast on Tuesday, March 31, the Governor detailed several decisive steps to manage the crisis:

48-Hour Curfew: A strict curfew was imposed on Jos North LGA, effective from midnight on Sunday, March 29, until Wednesday, April 1, 2026. This measure aims to prevent reprisal attacks and allow security agencies to conduct thorough "house-to-house" operations.

Medical & Burial Support: The Plateau State Government has pledged to take full responsibility for the medical bills of all survivors currently receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and will assist families with "dignified burials" for the deceased.

Arrests Made: Governor Mutfwang revealed that security agencies have already apprehended at least one suspect who had previously issued threats on social media, with orders to track down all other perpetrators and their sponsors.

Academic Suspension: Due to the proximity of the attack to student residential areas, the University of Jos has suspended ongoing examinations to ensure the safety of staff and students.

A Shift in Security Strategy
The Governor described the incident as an "emerging phase of urban terrorism" and called for a fundamental rethink of the state’s security architecture:

Proactive Over Reactive: Mutfwang urged security forces to move away from "routine peacekeeping" and adopt an intelligence-driven, aggressive approach.

Enforcement of Bans: He directed the strict enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycles (okadas) within the Jos Greater Master Plan, as they are often used by assailants for quick escapes into mountainous terrain.

State Policing Advocacy: The Governor reiterated his call for the establishment of State Police, arguing that localized responses are the only way to effectively counter such complex security challenges.

"Plateau State will not succumb to fear or intimidation. We shall emerge stronger, united, and resolute in our commitment to peace." — Governor Caleb Mutfwang

The situation remains tense but under control as security operatives maintain a heavy presence in Jos North.