By MARIE-THERESE NANLONG
The Plateau State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the killing of over 20 persons in Angwan Rukuba community of Jos North Local Government Area, describing the attack as barbaric and unacceptable.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, March 29, 2026, also left several others injured and currently receiving treatment in hospital.Among those killed was a pregnant woman.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Rev. Dunka Gomwalk, and Secretary, Pastor Julius Arabo, the association said the attack, which took place on Palm Sunday, was particularly disturbing given its significance in the Christian calendar.
“The killing on Palm Sunday, a week preceding Easter, is highly condemnable and is viewed as a targeted attack on innocent citizens and the Christian faith,” the statement said.
CAN expressed sympathy with families of the victims, noting that the loss of lives in such circumstances was painful and unjustifiable.
“Our hearts are with the families of the victims as we mourn the loss of innocent lives,” the association stated.
The body called on government at all levels and well-meaning individuals to provide urgent support to those injured and families of the deceased.It also demanded a thorough investigation into the incident, urging security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible.
“We call for a comprehensive investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and made to face the full weight of the law,” the statement added.
While condemning the attack, CAN appealed to residents of the affected communities to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
The association further urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies working to restore peace and normalcy in the area.CAN prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and called for sustained efforts to prevent further violence in the state.
Meanwhile, the Gamai Unity and Development Organization (GUDO) has condoled with the family of the late Mr Longwa Buba and the Gamai nation.According to a statement issued March 30, 2026, and signed by GUDO National Publicity Secretary, Nna Josephine Bikut, the organization received with shock and sorrow the news of his gruesome murder on Sunday at Angwan Rukuba, describing the act as heinous and deeply distressing for the community.
GUDO stated that it stood in solidarity with the bereaved family during this difficult time and prayed that the Almighty grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.The group also called on relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served and that such acts of violence are decisively addressed.
In a related development, the Plateau Our Heritage Revival Initiative (POHri) has urged the Nigerian military and other security agencies to adopt a more proactive, intelligence-driven and decisive approach in dealing with perpetrators of such heinous crimes.
In a press statement signed by Hon Alex Kwapnoe, Chairman, and Friday Bako, Secretary, the organisation condemned the Sunday attacks as a barbaric and inhuman act, describing the senseless killing of defenseless citizens as unacceptable and demanding the immediate and speedy arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
The group highlighted concerns over apparent lapses in security response and warned that prior threats allegedly issued by certain individuals were not given the necessary attention.
POHri stressed the urgent need for deliberate, coordinated and sustainable security strategies to confront and dismantle networks of terrorists and criminal elements threatening Plateau State and the nation.
The organisation further called on the Plateau State Government to strengthen and empower Operation Rainbow to enhance its operational capacity and responsiveness.
POHri extended heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured, while urging citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and take necessary precautions to safeguard their communities.