The Plateau State chapter of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has confirmed that four of its members were killed, while 10 others remain missing following Sunday night’s attack on Anguwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State.
Papers News understands that the incident, which has thrown the state into mourning, has so far claimed no fewer than 27 lives.
Gunmen, reportedly dressed in military camouflage and riding motorcycles, stormed Anguwan Rukuba at about 7:30 pm on Sunday, opening fire on residents.
The sudden attack triggered widespread panic, forcing many to flee for safety.
Initial reports indicated that 14 persons were killed during the assault. However, tensions escalated as angry youths took to the streets in protest, blocking roads and attacking some motorcycle riders and passengers.
Subsequent reports claimed that 13 critically injured victims died in the hospital, bringing the total death toll to 27.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Dr Salim Musa Umar, the group said findings from Muslim communities confirmed that some of its members were among those affected.
“Following thorough investigation and reports received from Muslim communities, we have discovered that four Muslims were killed while ten are still missing,” the statement read.
“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.”
JNI added that two injured victims were currently receiving treatment at JUTH, noting that it had established contact with affected families.
The organisation condoled with bereaved families and urged residents to remain calm, while also commending efforts by authorities to restore order.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Government has relaxed the 48-hour curfew earlier imposed on Jos North Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
“Effective from April 1, 2026, the curfew will now be observed from 7 am to 3 pm. Residents are hereby permitted to carry out their lawful activities within the stipulated hours,” she said.
Journalists who visited parts of Jos revealed a tense atmosphere, with marketplaces and major roads largely deserted on Tuesday.
Areas such as Ahmadu Bello Way, Murtala Muhammed Way, Bauchi Road, Bauchi Junction, and British American Junction were notably affected.
Security presence remained heavy, with police officers, soldiers, NSCDC operatives, and vigilantes mounted at checkpoints and patrolling the city to enforce compliance.
Vehicles, especially those transiting through Jos, were subjected to rigorous security checks.
A resident, Jamilu Hassan, said the curfew had helped calm tensions but expressed concern over its economic impact.
“The government should find a lasting solution so people can go about their lawful businesses without fear,” he said.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to hunt down those responsible for the Plateau killings, as well as a separate deadly attack in Kaduna State.
Describing the incidents as “barbaric and cowardly,” the President, in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, 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 was acquiring advanced equipment to enable security agencies to track and neutralise criminals in real time.
Kaduna Attack Compounds Tragedy
In a related development, at least 13 wedding guests were reportedly shot dead, while several others were abducted during an attack on Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The President condemned the incident as an affront to national values.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, declared that the state would not bow to fear, pledging resilience and unity among residents.
He ordered strict enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycle operations within the Jos Greater Master Plan and urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
The Senate also reacted to the killings, mourning the victims and calling for urgent intervention.
Following a motion moved by Senator Diket Plang, lawmakers directed the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the attacks and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The Red Chamber further called for humanitarian assistance for displaced victims and advocated the establishment of military bases in affected communities.
It also urged increased recruitment into security agencies and resolved to send a delegation to Plateau State to assess the situation and sympathise with the victims.
