Hundreds of angry residents in Plateau State on Monday morning defied a government-imposed curfew to protest the deadly Palm Sunday attack that claimed several lives in Jos North Local Government Area.
The demonstration began at Anguwan Rukuba, the scene of the attack, with protesters gathering as early as 9 a.m., according to a live TikTok stream monitored by observers.
The crowd, visibly agitated, marched through parts of the community chanting solidarity songs and demanding urgent action from authorities.
The protest followed a violent incident on Sunday evening in Anguwan Rukuba, located in Jos North LGA of Plateau State, where unidentified gunmen reportedly opened fire on residents, leaving multiple casualties. The attack occurred on Palm Sunday, a significant day in the Christian calendar, heightening tensions in the predominantly Christian community.
Despite the state government’s declaration of a curfew aimed at restoring calm and preventing further violence, residents poured into the streets, arguing that restrictions on movement would not address the root causes of recurring attacks in the area.
“This curfew will not bring back those we lost,” one protester was heard saying during the livestream. “We need security and justice, not just restrictions.”
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Protesters carried placards and called on security agencies to intensify patrols and intelligence operations to prevent further bloodshed. Many insisted that repeated attacks in parts of Jos North have left residents living in fear, with little confidence that existing security measures are sufficient.
In the course of the protest, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State, arrived at the scene to address the demonstrators. His presence drew a mix of reactions, with some residents demanding immediate assurances of safety and concrete steps to halt the violence.
The state government had earlier imposed a curfew in affected areas following the attack, citing the need to prevent reprisals and restore order. Security personnel were deployed across strategic points in Jos North to enforce compliance.
Plateau State has experienced intermittent communal and sectarian violence over the years, particularly in Jos and surrounding communities. Monday’s protest underscores the growing frustration among residents who say they are weary of repeated attacks and reactive measures.
As of press time, security agencies had not released an updated official casualty figure from the Palm Sunday incident. Authorities have urged calm and assured the public that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible.
However, for many residents of Anguwan Rukuba and neighbouring communities, the protest reflected a deeper demand — not only for justice for the victims but for lasting peace and sustained security presence in the troubled area.