Protesters disrupt funeral service amid mounting security tension in Plateau state

Grief quickly gave way to anger in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North, on Tuesday as a funeral for victims of the recent attack turned into a protest over what residents describe as a widening gap between violence and justice in Plateau State.

Women and youths gathered outside the church, disrupting proceedings and demanding accountability, insisting that those earlier arrested were not responsible for the killings.

The demonstration reflected a deeper frustration, one rooted in repeated attacks and what many see as a slow, ineffective response from authorities.

As tensions rose, the state government confirmed the death toll had climbed to 33 after more victims died in the hospital.

Chief of Staff Jeremiah Satmak said efforts are ongoing to uncover those behind the attack and restore calm.

“Government is working tirelessly to unravel the motive behind these killings and bring an end to the violence on the Plateau. This attack was meant to break our unity, but it will not succeed,” he said.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and prayerful, while also confirming the release of three youths earlier detained in connection with the incident, one of the key demands of the protesters.

Religious leaders warned that without justice, peace would remain elusive. Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, Rev. Gomwalk Dunkan, struck a firm note.

“There can be no peace without justice. Government must ensure that justice is served for lasting peace to return,” he said.