Governor Mutfwang Promises Justice Following Jos Attack Amid Community Concerns

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has committed to ensuring that those accountable for the deadly assault on the Angwan Rukuba community are brought to justice. This pledge followed his visit to the site of the attack on Wednesday.

In a statement posted on his official X account, Governor Mutfwang labeled the assault as "heinous". He expressed his condolences to the families of victims during his visit and reassured them that the government would not permit these killings to evade punishment.

"I assure you that those responsible for this evil act will not go unpunished. My administration will pursue justice relentlessly until the perpetrators are brought to book," Mutfwang emphasized.

Additionally, the governor announced that medical expenses for the injured would be covered by the state, as well as providing dignified burials for the deceased victims.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that gunmen invaded Angwan Rukuba last Sunday evening, disguising themselves as customers in a local beer parlour before they opened fire on patrons. Eyewitness accounts state that the attackers shot indiscriminately and fled into nearby bushes, leaving multiple casualties and reigniting tensions in the area.

The state government responded by imposing a 48-hour curfew in Jos North, leading to the postponement of examinations at the University of Jos and the closure of several schools amidst security fears.

There are conflicting reports regarding the casualty figures. While police assessments indicate that 12 individuals lost their lives, residents have stated the numbers are much higher. "From what we saw and counted, it is more than 30," a community member noted, referencing video evidence of numerous bodies at the scene.

The difference in reported figures has added to the community's frustrations as many locals believe that official statistics frequently underestimate the scale of violence in the region.

Some residents also conveyed their doubts regarding the governor's promises, pointing out that similar commitments made after past incidents have often yielded no tangible results. "This is not the first time leaders are coming here to promise justice; after past killings, the attackers are rarely apprehended," one resident remarked.

In light of ongoing violence in Plateau communities, including various attacks in recent months in Riyom and Kanam, there are calls for genuine accountability. Officials have routinely condemned these acts and pledged to uphold justice, but many residents feel that actual arrests and prosecutions have been minimal, which raises concerns about the government’s resolve to deter further violence.

At the conclusion of his address, Mutfwang urged collaboration among traditional and religious leaders, as well as the local populace, stressing security as a collective duty. The latest incident and the ensuing reactions highlight the growing divide between government assurances and the expectations of the community, as residents clamor for substantive measures to eradicate the cycle of violence.