In brief
After a horrific incident where gunmen attacked a bar in Jos, Plateau State, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 individuals, state authorities have declared a 48-hour curfew. The situation escalated as local residents retaliated, leading to further casualties. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang condemned the violence and called for justice, while security forces were deployed to maintain order and prevent additional unrest. The state, known for its fragile security dynamics, faces ongoing challenges from inter-community violence and broader national security issues.
A 48-hour curfew has been imposed in parts of the central Nigerian city of Jos, after gunmen opened fire at a bar, leading to deadly revenge attacks, local reports say.
Twelve people were reportedly killed when attackers ambushed the drinking spot. A mob subsequently retaliated, killing 10 more people.
Announcing the curfew, Plateau state governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang stated that an investigation would be launched and urged for those responsible for the violence to be brought to justice. The state has long been considered one of the most volatile parts of Nigeria.
Paul Mancha, chairperson of the youth council in Plateau state, suggested that the true number of casualties might be even higher, revealing that many residents were injured and receiving treatment in hospitals.
In a statement, Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings as 'barbaric and unprovoked' and directed security agencies to pursue those responsible. Local residents reported that threats had been made on social media before the attack.
The curfew began at midnight local time and will be in effect until April 1. Residents are ordered to stay indoors as security personnel increase their patrols throughout the affected areas.
Following the shooting, security forces were deployed quickly to restore calm. Plateau State, located in central Nigeria, is prone to violence among various communities, particularly between mainly Muslim herders and largely Christian farmers competing for land and water access.
The attack in Jos is indicative of the broader security challenges faced across Nigeria, which range from an Islamist insurgency in the north-east to banditry and kidnappings in the north-west and central regions. Observers pointed out that overlapping pressures have stretched security resources and complicated response efforts, underscoring the fragile local security arrangements that allow violence to disrupt daily life.
The imposition of a curfew reflects the seriousness of the threats in the region and the urgent need to prevent further escalation.
