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“Plateau State Violence Escalates: Death Toll Rises to 33 in Jos Attack, Protests Disrupt Mass Burial”
Jos, Plateau State – Tensions flared in Angwan Rukuba community as the death toll from Sunday’s brutal attack climbed to 33, sparking outrage among residents. The violence, which unfolded on Palm Sunday, has left families grieving and authorities scrambling to restore order.
Chaos at Funeral as Protests Erupt
A planned mass burial for the victims at ECWA Church turned chaotic when angry protesters—mostly women and youths—blocked the service, demanding the release of three detained youths. The demonstrators accused security forces of wrongful arrests, claiming the real attackers remain at large.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, gunmen ambushed and killed a 300-level university student in Dum Village, Riyom LGA, further inflaming tensions in the region.
Officials Demand Justice
Plateau State officials have condemned the attacks, with Barkin Ladi LGA Chairman Stephen Pwajok and Assembly member Dickson Chollom calling for a thorough investigation into the suspect arrested over the Pommwol village massacre.
Chief of Staff Jeremiah Satmak, representing the state government, confirmed the rising death toll, revealing that some victims succumbed to injuries in the hospital.
“Government is working tirelessly to unravel the motive behind these killings and bring an end to the violence on the Plateau,” Satmak stated. “This attack was meant to break our unity, but it will not succeed.”
He later announced the release of the three detained youths, though tensions remain high.
Residents Demand Accountability
Protesters carried placards accusing authorities of failing to deliver justice, with many alleging that innocent youths were targeted while the actual perpetrators evade capture.
Rev. Gomwalk Dunkan, Chairman of the Plateau State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), emphasized that lasting peace hinges on justice. “There can be no peace without justice,” he said. “Government must ensure that justice is served for lasting peace to return.”
Growing Frustration Over Unending Violence
The protests reflect deepening frustration among Plateau residents, who have endured repeated cycles of violence with little resolution. Many fear further attacks if security measures are not strengthened.
As investigations continue, officials urge vigilance while assuring residents that efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible.
— Reported by Nexio News
