Fresh unrest gripped Jos on Wednesday after the Plateau State Government eased the 48-hour curfew imposed on Jos North Local Government Area following a deadly attack on residents of Angwan Rukuba.
The earlier attack claimed at least 28 lives.
The government announced the relaxation on Tuesday through Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, stating that the curfew would now run daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., allowing residents to resume normal activities during the day.
Despite the adjustment, tensions remained high. Eyewitnesses reported attacks by hoodlums on motorists and pedestrians in several parts of the city, creating widespread fear. At the road leading to the University of Jos Permanent Site, a young man was reportedly killed after being assaulted by a mob. Several motorists also had their windscreens smashed in the Terminus and Bauchi Road areas.
Affected areas included the University of Jos axis, Bauchi Road, Farin Gada, Tina Junction, and Chobe, which caused business disruptions and forced local banks to close temporarily.
A resident, Joy Bature, who runs a provision shop in Terminus Market, expressed concern: “We are scared to open our shops because we don’t know what might happen.
The government has acted in the interest of the people by relaxing the curfew, but some individuals have taken the law into their own hands. Authorities must do more to ensure our safety.”
The University of Jos Alumni Association also voiced concern over the safety of students and staff.
In a statement, Global President Gad Peter Shamaki called on the government and security agencies to increase patrols and implement intelligence-led surveillance. “We request round-the-clock patrols, rapid response units, and proactive measures to address potential threats,” Shamaki said, advising students to remain indoors and vigilant.
Another resident, Ishaku Mark, emphasized the need for calm: “The government relaxed the curfew following relative calm after the tragic attack. Residents must maintain peace, and those responsible for the renewed unrest should be brought to justice.”
