Tension has flared in Jos hours after the Plateau State Government relaxed a 48-hour curfew imposed in the wake of a deadly attack in Anguwan Rukuba.
Reports indicate that fresh, sporadic violence broke out in parts of the city, with unconfirmed accounts suggesting new casualties. The unrest triggered panic among residents, forcing traders who had earlier resumed business to shut down and flee to safety.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with people running for cover amid fears of renewed attacks. Security presence has reportedly been reinforced in affected areas, although authorities are yet to officially confirm the latest incidents.
The curfew had been introduced to restore calm following Sunday night’s attack, but the renewed tension underscores the fragile security situation in the state. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant as efforts continue to restore order.
The earlier attack in Anguwan Rukuba saw unidentified gunmen, reportedly on motorcycles, open fire on residents, killing at least 28 people near the junction on Sunday evening. In the aftermath, angry youths blocked major roads within the community, heightening tensions.
The incident came weeks after another deadly assault in Kanam Local Government Area, where armed bandits reportedly killed no fewer than 20 security operatives and vigilantes during an ambush on a joint patrol team.
Following the Anguwan Rukuba attack, the University of Jos rescheduled examinations earlier slated for March 30 and 31. In a statement, the institution’s Deputy Registrar for Information and Public Relations, Emmanuel Madugu, advised staff and students to remain vigilant and limit movement.
In a statewide broadcast, Governor Caleb Mutfwang assured residents that the state would not succumb to fear or intimidation.
