The death toll from the Palm Sunday attack on Angwan Rukuba community in Plateau State has risen to 33, following the passing of victims who were receiving treatment in hospitals.
This was confirmed on Tuesday by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Jeremiah Satmark, who represented Governor Caleb Mutfwang at a funeral service held at the ECWA Church in Jos.
Speaking during the service, Satmark assured residents that the state government remains committed to uncovering the perpetrators behind the attack and ensuring they face justice.
He stressed that the violence was an attempt to disrupt unity within the community but insisted that such efforts would not prevail.
In a related development, he disclosed that three youths earlier arrested in connection with the incident had been released.
The Plateau State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Gomwalk Dunkan, called for sincere and courageous dialogue among stakeholders, emphasizing that justice remains the only pathway to lasting peace in the state.
Related News:
Soldiers Kill Terrorists, Arrest Suspected Kidnapper in Plateau
Terrorists kill couples in Plateau
Kidnappers kill one, abduct 4 in Plateau
Bandits attack Plateau Kill 3 Soldiers, 7 Vigilantes
Other stakeholders, including the Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, Dr. Joyce Sanda, and former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Titus Alams, urged residents to remain calm despite the tension.
They also called on security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.
The funeral proceedings were briefly disrupted when women and youths staged a protest, demanding the release of the detained youths.
Protesters alleged that the individuals were wrongly arrested while the real attackers were still at large.
Tension escalated as mourners insisted that burials would not continue until the youths were freed. However, the atmosphere changed when the three individuals were released and brought to the church, sparking jubilation among residents.
The incident once again highlights growing concerns over recurring violence in Plateau State and the urgent need for timely justice and strengthened security measures.
About the Author
