Nigeria Imposes Curfew in Jos After Deadly University-Area Attack

At least 30 people were killed in a deadly overnight attack in Jos North, Plateau State, prompting a two-day curfew. The incident follows ongoing violence in Nigeria’s north and central regions, including a mass shooting in Kaduna that killed 13, highlighting persistent security challenges.

The Plateau State government in central Nigeria has imposed a two-day curfew in Jos North Local Government Area following a deadly overnight attack in the Angwan Rukuba district. Authorities described the incident as a “tragic security incident” that resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. Local youth agency representatives cited by Reuters and AFP said at least 30 people were killed.
Residents reported that gunmen entered the Gari Ya Waye community, which has close ties to the University of Jos, and opened fire indiscriminately. In the aftermath, AFP also reported mob attacks seeking retaliation. The University of Jos canceled all examinations for two days in response.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the affected area, consoling grieving families and assuring the public that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. The state government urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies while investigations continue.
The attack comes amid longstanding tensions in Plateau State between predominantly Muslim Fulani herders and mainly Christian farmers, though the role of religion versus competition for land and resources is debated. Criminal gangs also contribute to insecurity in the region.
On the same day, AFP reported another mass shooting at a pre-wedding party in Kaduna state, northern Nigeria, which killed at least 13 people and saw several others kidnapped. Kaduna faces ongoing threats from both jihadist groups and local criminal gangs, known as “bandits,” who frequently carry out raids and kidnappings.
Despite ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to improve security, the northern and central regions continue to experience violence. The United States has recently deployed 200 troops to Nigeria to provide specialist training and technical support to local forces combating jihadist groups.