A protest broke out on Tuesday at the ECWA Gospel Church in Angwan Rukuba, Plateau State, disrupting a scheduled mass burial for seven victims of recent attacks. Demonstrators, largely made up of women and youths, clashed with security personnel and blocked access to the church, halting funeral proceedings.
The protesters accused authorities of wrongfully arresting three young men from the community. They claimed the detainees had taken up arms to defend residents during the attacks and should not be treated as criminals. Chanting and carrying placards, the demonstrators insisted that “those arrested are not bandits” and called for their immediate release.
Tensions escalated as the crowd prevented mourners and officials from entering the church premises. The standoff created a tense atmosphere, with security forces attempting to restore order while avoiding further violence.
The protest follows a wave of deadly attacks in Plateau State that has heightened fear and anger among residents. On Sunday, March 29, 2026, suspected armed assailants stormed Gari Ya Waye, a settlement within the Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, estimated to be more than 20 in number, arrived between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and opened fire on residents. The assault caused widespread panic as people fled for safety.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the killings, describing the घटना as a “senseless attack on law-abiding citizens.” He expressed sympathy for the victims’ families and pledged continued efforts to improve security in the region.
The violence has added to longstanding concerns about insecurity in Plateau State, where communities have repeatedly faced attacks by armed groups. Residents have often complained about delayed security responses and insufficient protection.
In the aftermath of the March 29 нападение, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, condemned the killings and ordered an усиление of security presence in the area. He described the attack as “unfortunate” and directed law enforcement agencies to track down those responsible.
As part of the response, the police deployed the Deputy Inspector-General in charge of Operations to Plateau State. The official was tasked with assessing the situation on the ground, coordinating security efforts, and ensuring that calm is restored.
Despite these measures, frustration remains high among residents. The arrest of the three youths has become a focal point of anger, with many in the community arguing that local defenders are being punished while perpetrators remain at large.
Tuesday’s protest reflects deeper tensions over how security is being handled in the region. For many families affected by the violence, the disruption of the burial underscores both their grief and their demand for justice.
Authorities have yet to announce whether the detained youths will be released or formally charged. Meanwhile, the situation in Angwan Rukuba remains tense, with security forces maintaining a presence to prevent further unrest.
The mass burial, which was meant to provide closure for grieving families, has now been overshadowed by the unfolding dispute between residents and security agencies.
