A wave of grief has swept through Plateau State following a deadly attack in Jos that claimed the lives of at least 20 persons on Sunday evening, casting a dark shadow over what should have been a day of solemn reflection and celebration for Christians marking Palm Sunday.

The incident, which occurred in the Angwan Rukuba axis of Jos North Local Government Area, has left several others injured and families devastated, as residents struggle to come to terms with the scale of the violence.

Akahi News gathered that the attack took place between approximately 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., when suspected gunmen reportedly stormed the Gari Ya Waye community, unleashing terror on unsuspecting residents.

Community Thrown into Mourning

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the assailants carried out the हमला with little warning, resulting in significant casualties and widespread panic within the community.

The timing of the incident—on Palm Sunday—has further deepened the emotional impact, as many victims were said to have been returning from or preparing for religious activities associated with the Holy Week.

Residents described scenes of chaos and fear, with many fleeing for safety as gunshots rang out across the area.

Security Response and Immediate Measures

Following a distress call, troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace, were swiftly mobilised to the scene in an effort to restore order and prevent further escalation.

Security operatives reportedly secured the area and commenced efforts to stabilise the situation, while investigations into the attack were immediately launched.

In response to the violence, the Plateau State Government announced the imposition of a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area, effective from midnight of March 29 to April 1, 2026.

Akahi News learnt that the curfew is aimed at restoring calm, enabling security agencies to intensify operations, and preventing any retaliatory attacks.

Government Condemns “Barbaric” Attack

In an official statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the Plateau State Government strongly condemned the нападение, describing it as “barbaric and unprovoked.”

The government assured residents that security agencies have been directed to track down those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.

Authorities also appealed to members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with ongoing investigations, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining peace.

Renewed Concerns Over Security

The tragic event has once again raised concerns about the persistent security challenges in parts of Plateau State and the broader need for sustainable peace-building efforts.

Analysts note that recurring incidents of violence in the region highlight underlying tensions that require not only security interventions but also dialogue, reconciliation, and community engagement.

Akahi News gathered that stakeholders are calling for urgent and coordinated action to address the root causes of such attacks and prevent further loss of lives.

A Painful Palm Sunday

For many Christians, Palm Sunday is a day that symbolises peace, hope, and the triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem. However, this year’s observance in Jos has been marred by sorrow and tragedy.

The contrast between the message of peace associated with the day and the violence that unfolded has left a profound sense of loss and reflection across the nation.

As families mourn their loved ones and the community grapples with the aftermath of the attack, the focus now shifts to justice, healing, and the restoration of peace.

The tragedy in Jos serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for unity and security in society.

Akahi News www.akahinews.org