Tension escalated in Plateau State as the death toll from recent attacks in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos North Local Government Area, rose to 33 following a violent Palm Sunday incident. The situation became more volatile when grieving residents disrupted a planned mass burial at the ECWA Church.
Angry women and youths staged a protest outside the church, halting funeral proceedings as they demanded the immediate release of three youths earlier arrested by the military in connection with the attack. The demonstration created chaos at what was meant to be a solemn ceremony for victims of the tragedy.
Confirming the increased casualty figure, Jeremiah Satmak, Chief of Staff to the Plateau State Governor, explained that several victims who were initially injured later died in hospital, raising the number from 28 to 33. He reassured residents that the government was intensifying efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence.
According to Satmak, the attack was aimed at destabilizing the unity of the community but would not succeed. He urged citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies. He also announced that the three detained youths had been released, a move that eventually eased tensions in the area.
In a related development, suspected gunmen reportedly killed a 300-level university student in Dum Village, Bachi District of Riyom Local Government Area, further heightening fears among residents.
Local authorities have called for swift justice. Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Stephen Pwajok, alongside lawmaker Dickson Chollom, demanded a thorough investigation into the attack on Pommwol village and prosecution of any suspects found culpable.
Meanwhile, Plateau State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Gomwalk Dunkan, emphasized that justice remains essential for lasting peace. He stressed that without accountability, the cycle of violence would persist.
Residents accused security operatives of arresting innocent youths while the real perpetrators remained at large, reflecting deep frustration over recurring attacks and delays in justice across affected communities.
