Gunmen Kill 20 in Plateau Community Attack as 48-Hour Curfew Imposed

Gunmen killed at least 20 people in a late-night attack on a community in Jos North, Plateau State, prompting authorities to impose a 48-hour curfew and deploy security forces. The death toll may rise as search efforts continue.

Gunmen launched a deadly late-night हमला on a university community in north-central Nigeria, leaving at least 20 people dead and several others injured, in an incident that has once again highlighted the persistent insecurity in the region.
The attack occurred on Sunday night in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, where residents said heavily armed assailants stormed the community and began shooting indiscriminately at civilians. The sound of gunfire sent panic through the area, forcing many people to flee their homes in darkness, seeking refuge wherever they could find safety.
Initial reports from local media indicated that 13 people had been killed. However, by Monday, community leaders and local sources confirmed that the death toll had risen to at least 20. There are growing concerns that the number of casualties could increase further as search and rescue efforts continue, with some victims feared to still be missing.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and terror, with families separated in the chaos and residents scrambling to escape the violence. Some survivors recounted hiding for hours while the attackers moved through the area.
One survivor, who identified himself as Steven Enoch, expressed deep frustration over the recurring violence, saying it was heartbreaking that armed groups continue to target innocent people. He described the situation as spiraling out of control and called for stronger action to protect vulnerable communities.
In response to the attack, the Plateau State government swiftly imposed a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area. The measure restricts movement in and out of the area as security forces intensify efforts to restore calm, prevent further violence, and track down those responsible.
Authorities have deployed additional security personnel to the affected community, with patrols increased across surrounding areas to deter any follow-up attacks. The curfew is also intended to give security agencies the space needed to conduct investigations and stabilize the situation.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, strongly condemned the нападение, describing it as barbaric and unprovoked. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that those behind the killings would be identified and brought to justice.
Ramnap also extended condolences to the families of the victims and urged residents to remain calm despite the tragedy. She cautioned against any form of retaliation or actions that could further inflame tensions, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation with security agencies during this difficult period.
The attack adds to a series of violent incidents that have plagued parts of Plateau State and other regions of Nigeria, raising ongoing concerns about safety, community tensions, and the effectiveness of security responses.