Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
In response to heightened tensions following unrest in parts of Jos North Local Government Area, the Plateau State Police Command has made a series of impactful arrests and reinforced its commitment to maintaining law and order under the ongoing curfew regime. This action comes in the wake of a relaxation of a 48‑hour curfew imposed by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, with the Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah, emphasising strict adherence to curfew directives and zero tolerance for criminality.
According to an official statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Alfred Alabo, the situation escalated in the early hours of April 1, 2026, when a disagreement among youths in Nassarawa Gwong community of Jos North sparked tensions. What began as a local dispute quickly drew the attention of opportunistic elements described by police as “hoodlums and crisis merchants,” who exploited the unrest to spread fear and panic among traders and students within the nearby university community.
The command, acting swiftly and in coordination with other security agencies, moved to contain the situation. Law enforcement personnel intervened to restore calm and prevent further escalation. Efforts have since been focused on protecting vulnerable residents, especially students, and stabilising the community environment. As part of this response, the police, state government authorities, and school leadership coordinated the provision of transport to assist students in reaching their preferred destinations safely.
In the course of the operation, seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the disturbances. Among those detained is 27‑year‑old Matthew Musa, found in possession of two locally made firearms, and 26‑year‑old Yakubu Abdullahi, who was discovered wearing a Nigerian Military uniform, an extra shirt, and a forged Nigerian Military School Identity Card. These individuals are currently undergoing investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigative procedures.
The statement underscores that the Police Command’s priority remains the protection of lives and property, and that the arrests reflect an uncompromising stance against individuals using civil unrest as a pretext for violent or unlawful behaviour. CP Bassey Ewah has issued a firm warning to anyone contemplating similar acts, declaring that the command will deploy all legal instruments available to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure they face the full weight of the law.
In his address to the public, the Commissioner of Police also called on community stakeholders to play an active role in maintaining peace. Parents, traditional and religious leaders were specifically urged to advise their children, wards, congregants and followers to respect the curfew restrictions, cooperate with security agencies, and desist from actions that could destabilise the state. He reiterated that the Command will show no leniency toward lawless groups intent on turning Plateau State into a theatre of violence.
Residents have been provided with contact information for the Plateau State Police control room and neighbourhood stations to report any suspicious activities within their environments. These include direct lines to police units tasked with community support, reinforcing the message that public cooperation is essential to early detection of threats to public safety.
The arrests and clampdown follow a period of civil unease that has seen other communities within Jos and surrounding areas experience tensions linked to social disputes, economic pressures, and political dynamics. While the curfew was initially imposed to limit movement and prevent wider unrest, the police’s operational response demonstrates an effort to balance enforcement with community reassurance, ensuring that residents can feel safe while the rule of law is upheld.
Observers note that the swift deployment of security personnel and the targeted arrests signify an active approach by the Plateau State Command to deter further incidents. By publicly naming suspects and detailing the nature of their alleged offences — including illegal possession of weapons and impersonation of military personnel — the statement aims to deter others from exploiting periods of disruption to engage in criminal conduct.
In reminding citizens of the ongoing curfew, the command reiterated that curfew restrictions are instituted for public safety and that violations carry legal consequences. Security sources indicate that checkpoints and patrols remain active across Plateau State, especially in areas with prior experience of communal tensions, to enforce compliance and quickly address any emerging threats.
As the situation continues to evolve, law enforcement officials have pledged ongoing updates to the public and assured that additional measures are in place to safeguard both residents and critical infrastructure. The coordinated effort between the police, state authorities, and community leaders reflects broader commitments to stability and peace, particularly during sensitive periods that can be prone to unrest.
In urging calm and cooperation, the Plateau State Police Command emphasises that a collective approach to peace — with citizens reporting concerns, security agencies responding appropriately, and community voices advocating for restraint — is essential to preventing further violence and maintaining the state’s security environment.
Residents are strongly encouraged to comply with existing curfew directives, work with law enforcement when necessary, and remain vigilant in reporting activities that could threaten the safety of families and neighbourhoods.
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