By Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos
Death toll resulting from the gunmen attack in Jos last Sunday night has risen to 28 persons as the hospital confirmed additional victims dead.
It was reported earlier on Monday morning that at least 20 people were killed even as the police authority reported 14 deaths. But as at 2pm later, more death were confirmed in hospitals.
The rising in casualties sparked street protest by youths of the Angwaun Rukuba community as hundreds of youths defy the curfew and flood the street to protest the killing which they described as unprovoked.
The protesting youths chased away security agencies from their community accusing them of failure to take preventive measures despite early warning signals of an impending attack.
The youths expressed deep angers at government and security agencies for failing in their primary responsibility to protect lives and properties.
The Zonal Coordinator of the Plateau Youth Council, Samson Chiroma, said bodies were recovered from the area overnight, with additional deaths recorded in hospitals.
He alleged that the attack was “well-coordinated and calculated,” adding that the community had earlier received threats on social media prior to the incident. Chiroma called on authorities to investigate the threats and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Also speaking, the Jos North Chairman of the Plateau Youth Council, Ambassador Paul Mancha, condemned the attack and urged government and security agencies to act decisively.
“This was not an accidental attack. It was deliberate and well executed. We have been working to calm our youths and prevent reprisals, but justice must be served,” he said.
Mancha emphasized the need for thorough investigations, including scrutiny of individuals who allegedly made inciting statements on social media prior to the attack. He also called for improved accountability among security operatives during emergency responses.
Similarly, Chairman of the Coalition of Youth Leaders for Good Governance, Phillip Nanbut Bako, described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, urging government authorities to take immediate action to prevent further loss of lives.
He warned that continued attacks without accountability could provoke unrest, while stressing that community leaders are working to restrain youths from taking the law into their hands.
As of the time of filing this report, several injured victims are receiving treatment in hospitals, while security agencies continue efforts to stabilize the area.
In response to the incident, the Plateau State Government has imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as investigations into the attack continue.
