JNI CONFIRMS FOUR DEAD, TEN MISSING AFTER DEADLY ATTACK IN JOS COMMUNITY

JNI CONFIRMS FOUR DEAD, TEN MISSING AFTER DEADLY ATTACK IN JOS COMMUNITY

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has confirmed that at least four Muslims were killed and ten others remain missing following a violent attack in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, in an incident that has heightened tensions and renewed concerns over security in the region.

In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Secretary General of JNI, Dr. Salim Musa Umar, said the organisation arrived at the figures after conducting independent verification through direct communication with affected families and community representatives. According to him, the confirmation reflects information gathered on the ground rather than relying solely on initial reports, which have often varied in similar incidents.

The statement revealed that the bodies of the four confirmed victims have been deposited at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, where they were formally identified by relatives. In addition to those killed, two other individuals who sustained injuries during the attack are currently receiving medical treatment at the same facility, with medical personnel reportedly working to stabilise their condition.

JNI also noted that ten individuals are still unaccounted for, raising fears among families and residents that the number of casualties could increase if those missing are not located promptly. Community members have reportedly been searching surrounding areas and contacting neighbouring settlements in an effort to trace their whereabouts, while anxiety continues to grow over their fate.

The attack in Angwan Rukuba forms part of a broader pattern of recurring violence in Plateau State, particularly in and around Jos North, where communal tensions, criminal activities, and sporadic outbreaks of violence have persisted over the years. Incidents in the area have often resulted in casualties, displacement, and destruction of property, placing considerable strain on already fragile intercommunal relations.

While official accounts from authorities have yet to fully reconcile casualty figures, community leaders and local organisations, including JNI, have indicated that the impact of the attack may be more severe than initially reported. Such discrepancies between official statements and local reports have been a recurring issue in conflict-affected areas, often complicating response efforts and public understanding of events.

In its statement, JNI expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, describing the killings as tragic and unacceptable. The organisation called for restraint among residents, urging communities to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions further. It also emphasised the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence in the face of provocation.

At the same time, JNI acknowledged the efforts of security agencies and government authorities in responding to the situation, particularly measures taken to restore order and prevent further violence. Security operatives have reportedly been deployed to the affected area, with patrols intensified to deter additional attacks and reassure residents.

The federal government has also indicated that investigations are ongoing, with security agencies working to identify those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice. Officials have reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property, though critics argue that more proactive and sustained strategies are needed to address the root causes of recurring violence in Plateau State and other parts of the country.

Analysts point to a complex mix of factors driving insecurity in the region, including longstanding communal disputes, competition over land and resources, and the activities of armed groups exploiting local tensions. These dynamics have made conflict resolution particularly challenging, requiring coordinated efforts that go beyond immediate security responses.

For residents of Angwan Rukuba and surrounding communities, the immediate priority remains the safety of those still missing and the prevention of further attacks. Families of the victims continue to mourn their losses, while others wait anxiously for news of loved ones whose whereabouts remain unknown.

The incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address insecurity in Plateau State, including strengthened intelligence gathering, community engagement, and sustained peacebuilding initiatives. As investigations continue, many observers say the focus must remain on ensuring accountability while also fostering dialogue to prevent future outbreaks of violence.

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