Jos Palm Sunday attack: Rights group blames leadership failures

By Chioma Obinna

A civil rights organisation has criticised federal and state authorities following a deadly Palm Sunday attack in parts of Jos, Plateau State, which left several people dead, according to local reports.

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, said the incident highlights what it described as “persistent gaps’ in security and intelligence.

In a press statement on Tuesday, signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Owubiko, the group faulted the response of the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Plateau State government under Caleb Mutfwang.

“The repeated attacks raise serious concerns about the effectiveness of measures in place to protect lives and property,” the group said.

The attack reportedly occurred in Angwa Rukuba, Eto Baba and nearby student-populated communities, where gunmen were said to have opened fire, causing panic among residents.

A humanitarian worker cited by the group said, “At least 10 people have been confirmed dead following the attack, but the official toll has not yet been released.”

Residents described chaotic scenes as the violence unfolded. “We heard gunshots and people started running in different directions,” one witness said.

Some local accounts indicated that the assailants arrived on motorcycles and retreated toward nearby hills after the attack, although authorities have not confirmed these details.

Witnesses also reported sporadic gunfire around Angwa Rukuba Junction, with parts of the community allegedly set ablaze during the incident.

Students and residents in the affected areas have been advised to remain indoors due to ongoing security concerns.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued an official statement on the attack or confirmed the identity of those responsible.

HURIWA called for improved coordination among security agencies and more proactive measures to prevent recurring violence in Plateau State.

In its statement, the group urged authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and rapid response systems.

“Authorities must demonstrate greater commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and preventing further loss of life,” the group said.

Jos and surrounding communities in Plateau State have experienced repeated incidents of violence in recent years, often linked to complex disputes involving land use, ethnicity and religion.

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian calendar, a significant period leading up to Easter.

Investigations into the latest attack are expected as residents continue to express concern over safety in the area.

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