Jos Palm Sunday assault: Watchdog points to leadership shortcomings

A civil rights organisation has come down heavily on federal and state authorities in the wake of a devastating Palm Sunday attack in parts of Jos, Plateau State, which resulted in the loss of multiple lives, as reported by local sources. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, contends that the incident exposes glaring "persistent gaps" in security and intelligence.

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The organisation's National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Owubiko, expressed the group's dissatisfaction with the response of the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Plateau State government, under Caleb Mutfwang, in a press statement issued on Tuesday.

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The group's statement highlighted that the recurring attacks raise serious concerns about the effectiveness of measures in place to safeguard lives and property, according to HURIWA.

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

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A humanitarian worker cited by the group reported that at least 10 people have been confirmed dead following the attack, although the official toll has not yet been released.

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Residents described the scenes as chaotic as the violence unfolded, with one witness recounting, "We heard gunshots and people started running in different directions."

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

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

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Students and residents in the affected areas have been advised to remain indoors due to ongoing security concerns, as the situation remains volatile.

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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.

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HURIWA called for improved coordination among security agencies and more proactive measures to prevent recurring violence in Plateau State, emphasizing the need for urgent action.

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The group urged authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and rapid response systems, stressing that "authorities must demonstrate greater commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and preventing further loss of life."

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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.

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

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Investigations into the latest attack are expected as residents continue to express concern over safety in the area, with many seeking reassurance from the authorities.