Jos attack: Mutfwang confirms 28 killed, vows action

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, on Tuesday confirmed that 28 persons were killed in a deadly gunmen attack on the Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area.

The governor made the confirmation in a statewide broadcast following the Sunday evening assault, which occurred at about 7:30 pm in the Gari Ya Waye area of the community.

Mutfwang, alongside security chiefs, had visited the scene of the attack and the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) where survivors are receiving treatment.

He described the incident as a “senseless attack” on law-abiding citizens.

“Twenty-eight innocent lives were lost,” the governor said, adding that several others sustained injuries.

He announced that the state government would bear the full cost of medical treatment for the injured and provide necessary support, including dignified burials, for the families of the deceased.

The governor also ruled out any mass burial for the victims.

The governor added that in response to the incident, a 48-hour curfew was imposed on Jos North LGA, effective from midnight on Sunday, March 29, to April 1, 2026, to enable security agencies to conduct thorough operations and restore normalcy.

The curfew will be reviewed periodically, he said.

His words: “It is with a heavy heart and profound sorrow that I address you today, not only as your Governor but as your son and brother who shares in your anguish following the tragic security incident in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, which occurred on Sunday, 29th March 2026.

“This unfortunate event led to the loss of 28 innocent lives and left many others injured.

“I feel deeply the weight of the pain inflicted on our people. The victims were law-abiding citizens going about their normal activities when the enemies of peace unleashed this senseless attack at about 7:30pm.

“As a government, we share deeply in the grief of the bereaved families and pray that Almighty God grants them, and the state, the strength, comfort, and grace to bear this painful loss.

“Despite this breach of security, I want to assure you that Plateau State will not succumb to fear or intimidation. We shall emerge stronger, united, and resolute in our faith and commitment to peace.

“We must deploy every available resource to defend our people, protect lives and property, and safeguard the territorial integrity of our state. Plateau shall remain strong and peaceful.

“Following the incident, the government took swift and decisive measures to restore order and prevent further escalation.

“In collaboration with security agencies, a 48-hour curfew was imposed on Jos North Local Government Area, effective from midnight on Sunday, 29th March to 1st April 2026.

“This measure allows security operatives to carry out thorough operations and ensure the safety of all residents. The curfew will be reviewed periodically to allow citizens to return to normal life.

“I personally visited the scene of the unfortunate incident alongside security chiefs to assess the situation and evaluate the extent of damage to lives and property.

“This visit has provided critical insights into strengthening our preventive measures against future occurrences.

“Furthermore, I visited victims receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital. I am encouraged by reports that most are in stable condition.

“I wish to assure all affected families that the Plateau State Government will take full responsibility for the medical expenses of the injured. Rest assured, we stand firmly with you and shall continue to provide the necessary support.

“The government will also engage closely with the families of the deceased, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure dignified burials for the victims, as well as provide support for their dependents.

“I am pleased to inform you that security agencies have apprehended a suspect who had earlier issued threats against the peace of our state.

“We are committed to ensuring that all those involved in this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice and prosecuted accordingly.