Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the scene of a recent deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba (also spelled Unguwan Rukuba or Agwan Rukuba) in Jos North Local Government Area. He addressed residents and youths from inside or via an armored (armoured) military vehicle amid high security tensions, rather than stepping out fully in some accounts. Videos and photos circulating on social media (Facebook, X/Twitter) and shared by outlets like Sahara Reporters show the governor speaking to a crowd, with many residents and youths reacting angrily — some shouting for him to “come down from your armoured vehicle.”
Gunmen attacked the Gari Ya Waye area of Angwan Rukuba community on Sunday night, March 29, 2026, opening indiscriminate fire on residents. The Plateau State Police Command and security reports confirmed at least 12 persons killed (including two women), while several others sustained injuries. Some community accounts and unverified reports put the death toll higher, between 26 and over 40. The attackers, described in different accounts as suspected cultists, unknown gunmen or bandits, struck around 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. near a popular spot in the area.
In response to the incident, the Plateau State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, imposed a 48-hour curfew across Jos North Local Government Area. The restriction took effect from midnight on March 29 and is expected to last until April 1, 2026, to restore calm and allow intensified security operations. The University of Jos also suspended examinations scheduled for Monday.
During his visit on Monday morning, Governor Mutfwang condemned the attack as barbaric and unprovoked. He assured residents that security agencies had been directed to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice. He appealed for calm and urged the people to provide useful information to security operatives. Some youths confronted him, demanding he come down from the armoured vehicle to address them directly, expressing frustration over the security situation.
The exact motive for the attack remains under investigation. Additional security forces have been deployed to the area, and the situation in Jos North remains tense as authorities work to prevent further escalation.
Further details on the final casualty figures and any arrests are expected as investigations continue. Residents have been advised to comply fully with the curfew.
