Plateau State Government Relaxes Curfew in Jos North After Deadly Angwan Rukuba Attack

Published on 1 April 2026 at 07:21

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

The Plateau State Government has announced a partial relaxation of the 48-hour curfew imposed on Jos North Local Government Area following a violent attack in the Angwan Rukuba community that claimed dozens of lives and left many injured. The decision comes after security agencies reported a return of relative calm, allowing residents to resume essential and lawful activities during designated hours while vigilance remains high.

The attack, which occurred on the evening of March 29, 2026, saw heavily armed gunmen move through the Gari Ya Waye section of Angwan Rukuba, killing and injuring civilians. The incident caused widespread panic, prompting the immediate imposition of a 48-hour curfew to enable security forces to restore order and prevent reprisals.

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang condemned the attack as senseless and barbaric, describing it as a major security breach. He visited affected hospitals and communities, offering condolences to families of the victims and pledging government support for medical care and dignified burials. By the end of March, authorities confirmed at least 28 fatalities and multiple injuries.

Effective from April 1, 2026, the curfew will now operate from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., giving residents the opportunity to carry out lawful activities within these hours. The state government emphasized that the adjustment does not signal the end of caution. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant, cooperate with security personnel, and avoid gatherings that could risk further violence.

During the curfew period, police, military, and other security agencies intensified patrols, gathered intelligence, and worked to prevent follow-on attacks. The governor also convened a State Security Council meeting to strengthen community safety measures, including tighter oversight of commercial motorcycle operations often exploited by armed assailants.

The Federal Government has supported the state’s actions, classifying the attack as a criminal act and assuring that coordinated security operations would continue to apprehend those responsible. Security experts noted that such attacks often exploit areas with limited law enforcement presence, highlighting the need for sustained intelligence-led operations and community engagement.

Local leaders, civil society groups, and residents have cautiously welcomed the relaxation of the curfew. Markets, schools, and places of worship, closed during the height of the restrictions, are gradually reopening under the new schedule. While there is optimism, there remains a strong sense of vigilance as residents continue to recover from the trauma of the attack.

The Angwan Rukuba attack underscores the broader security challenges in Plateau State, which has historically experienced communal clashes and violence linked to land, resources, and ethnic tensions. Authorities continue to stress that lasting peace will require ongoing collaboration between security forces, local leaders, and communities to prevent further incidents and restore confidence among residents.

The partial relaxation of the curfew represents both progress and caution, signaling that authorities are monitoring the situation closely while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the people of Jos North. Security measures remain under continuous review, with the government prepared to reinstate stricter restrictions if necessary to maintain order and protect lives.

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