Anguwan Rukuba Attack a Premeditated Criminal Act, Not Religious Conflict – Committee

Anguwan Rukuba Attack a Premeditated Criminal Act, Not Religious Conflict – Committee

The Hausa Community Security Enhancement Committee has described the recent violence in Anguwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, as a premeditated criminal attack rather than a religious or communal clash.

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In a detailed statement signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Sani Muazu, and Secretary, Amb. Sani Suleiman Maigoro, the committee said credible accounts indicate that about four armed assailants carried out the attack, opening fire indiscriminately on civilians of different faiths before fleeing the scene.

According to the committee, the victims included both Muslims and Christians, reinforcing the position that the attack was targeted at innocent residents and designed to create fear, chaos, and trigger retaliatory violence within the community.

The incident, which resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, has heightened tension in the area, with authorities already imposing security measures to prevent further escalation.

Warning Against Retaliation

The committee raised concern over subsequent developments following the attack, including illegal roadblocks and reprisal attacks on innocent commuters. It warned that such actions are unlawful, dangerous, and risk misrepresenting the incident as a religious or ethnic conflict.

“These acts only compound the tragedy and widen the scope of victimhood,” the statement noted, urging residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to allow security agencies to carry out their duties.

Call for Investigation Into Emerging Threats

The group also highlighted concerns over reports of possible involvement of organised criminal elements or foreign-linked actors in violent incidents across Plateau State. While noting that such claims require verification, the committee called on authorities to intensify intelligence gathering and ensure thorough investigations.

It urged security agencies to identify and prosecute perpetrators swiftly, while strengthening coordination to prevent further attacks.

Commendation for Government Response

The committee commended the Plateau State Government under Governor Caleb Mutfwang and security agencies for their prompt response in containing the situation. It also supported the imposition of a curfew, describing it as necessary to restore calm and prevent further violence.

Promoting Peace and Community Vigilance

Reaffirming its role, the committee said it would continue to engage in public sensitisation, community mobilisation, and efforts to counter misinformation and inflammatory narratives. It stressed the importance of vigilance, early reporting, and cooperation with authorities.

Residents were advised to remain alert, avoid spreading unverified information, comply with security directives, and prioritise peaceful coexistence.

Conclusion

The committee emphasised that the Anguwan Rukuba incident must be treated strictly as a criminal act by unidentified attackers, warning that framing it along religious or ethnic lines could deepen divisions and serve the interests of those seeking to destabilise society.

It called on all stakeholders to remain calm, united, and committed to justice and peace as investigations continue.

Anguwan Rukuba Attack a Premeditated Criminal Act, Not Religious Conflict – Committee