The affected areas are Barkin-Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.

The directive was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joyce Ramnap.

According to the statement, the curfew took effect on Monday, September 21, 2026, and restricts movement between 6:00pm and 6:00am daily until further notice.

“The Plateau State Government has declared an immediate, dusk-to-dawn curfew across Barkin Ladi, Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas to maintain public order and curb emerging security threats in the region,” the statement said.

The government said the measure was introduced to give security agencies the opportunity to restore normalcy and prevent further deterioration of the security situation.

It consequently directed residents in the three affected local government areas to comply with the restriction and plan their daily activities around the curfew hours.

The government urged residents to take the directive seriously and avoid activities that could lead to unnecessary hardship or confrontation during the restricted period.

“Therefore, all residents of affected Local Government Areas are expected to fully comply with the government’s directive for their own safety,” the statement added.

The government also announced a ban on the use of motorcycles within the affected jurisdictions and directed security agencies to enforce both the curfew and the motorcycle restriction.

“So far, security operatives have been directed to strictly enforce the curfew and the ban on use of motor cycles with immediate effect throughout the affected jurisdiction,” Ramnap said.

She, however, assured law abiding residents that security personnel deployed to enforce the measures would operate professionally.

The curfew will remain in place until further notice, with the state government expected to review the restriction based on developments in the security situation across the three local government areas.

This disturbing incident development threatens the peace and security being consolidated across the State.
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‎The Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang is deeply concerned about reports of violence in the community and sympathizes with residents and families affected by the incident. While regretting this terrible occurrence, the “Time is Now” administration is calling on members of the community to remain calm, avoid any form of reprisal and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, as security agencies continue efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
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‎Furthermore, the Governor has called on the relevant security agencies to intensify surveillance and patrols in Bin Mper, Kombun District and other vulnerable communities in Mangu LGA, while urging residents to provide credible and timely information that could assist security personnel in identifying and apprehending those responsible.
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‎The Plateau State Government reiterates that the protection of lives and property remains a priority of the administration. It will continue to work with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organisations, religious leaders and security agencies to strengthen peaceful coexistence and prevent the escalation of violence.
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‎It further appeals to all residents of Bin Mper and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant, peaceful , law-abiding and to report any suspicious behaviour to relevant authorities.
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‎Signed:
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‎Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap,mni
‎Honorable Commissioner for Information and Communication
‎Plateau State
‎August 18, 2026

The incidents occurred in Shonun community in Riyom Local Government Area and Hurum in Gashish District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, raising fresh concerns over insecurity in the state.

Speaking to Channels Television, the Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Tengong Rwang, said the attacks took place on the same night, with the assailants reportedly arriving on foot and armed with sophisticated weapons.

According to him, four people were killed in Hurum, while five others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment. In Shonun, two people were confirmed dead, with three others hospitalised.

Rwang alleged that residents of Shonun had earlier alerted security agencies about the presence of unfamiliar herders in the area, but no action was taken.

“The people of Shonun had informed security operatives about strange movements into the community, but nothing was done,” he said.

He further claimed that in recent days, herders around the community had been bringing in unknown individuals, prompting residents to evacuate women and children for safety.

Describing the communities as long-suffering, Rwang said repeated attacks over the years have forced many residents to flee their homes.

“These communities have suffered repeated attacks, and many people have abandoned their homes out of fear,” he added.

He noted that local vigilantes tried to resist the attackers but were overwhelmed due to the superior firepower of the assailants.

Rwang also criticised the security presence in the area, saying it has not been effective in preventing recurring violence.

“We are calling on the government to act swiftly and rid our communities of these attackers,” he said.

When contacted, the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, said he had yet to receive a formal briefing on the incidents but promised to provide updates after getting details from officers in the affected areas.

The latest attacks add to growing concerns over the safety of rural communities in Plateau State and highlight the urgent need for stronger security measures.

The restriction, which began at midnight on March 29 and is expected to last until April 1, 2026, was disclosed in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap.

According to the government, the curfew became necessary after a “tragic security incident” in the Gari Ya Waye area of Angwan Rukuba on Sunday, which resulted in casualties and heightened tension across the community.

“The Plateau State Government, in conjunction with security agencies, wishes to inform the general public of the imposition of a 48-hour curfew within Jos North Local Government Area with immediate effect,” the statement read.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric and unprovoked,” while assuring residents that security agencies have been deployed to restore peace and track down those responsible.

Mutfwang reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that “all necessary measures are being taken to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face the full wrath of the law.”

Residents have been advised to remain calm and comply fully with the curfew, while also assisting security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.

Authorities warned that movement within the affected local government area would be strictly limited throughout the duration of the curfew, with exceptions made only for essential services.

The development has further heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of Jos, as residents continue to call for stronger and sustained efforts to prevent further attacks and restore lasting peace.

Plateau State, like several other states in Nigeria’s North-Central and North-West regions, has experienced repeated attacks by armed groups in recent times.

Earlier in March, gunmen suspected to be bandits reportedly killed 20 people in a separate attack in Jos, according to the Kanam Development Association.

The group said the attackers ambushed soldiers on routine patrol, leading to a gun battle.

“In the unfortunate exchange of gunfire that followed the ambush, our nation lost brave defenders who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty,” KADA said, adding that 12 security personnel and eight local residents who supported them were killed.

The attackers were also reported to have invaded a nearby community, making away with property, including livestock.

“This further compounds the suffering of already vulnerable rural communities,” KADA added, noting that communities in the area have faced repeated attacks and kidnappings in recent years.

Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges, including insurgency and attacks by armed groups, which have put pressure on security forces across different regions.

According to the command, the incident occurred on Sunday evening, with victims comprising 10 men and two women. Security operatives have since intensified efforts to track down those responsible for the attack.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the command’s spokeperson, Alabo Alfred. The statement read,
“The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Bassey Ewah, psc(+), FCAI, MSPSP, commiserates with the people of Angwan Rukuba Community, Jos North Local Government Area, over the unfortunate attack which took place on March 29, 2026, and claimed the lives of twelve (12) persons—ten (10) men and two (2) women. As of this morning, an additional two corpses were found while our men were combing the bushes and trailing the suspects for possible arrest.

Police authorities stated that a distress call was received around 8:30 p.m. on the day of the incident, prompting the Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah, to personally lead a team of officers to the scene alongside other security agencies. The intervention, according to the command, was aimed at restoring calm and preventing further escalation.

Search operations have continued in surrounding areas, with security personnel combing nearby bushes in a bid to apprehend the suspects. The police also confirmed that additional bodies were discovered during these operations, bringing renewed attention to the scale of the attack.

The remains of the deceased have been taken to the mortuary for autopsy, while investigations are ongoing to identify both the victims and the perpetrators of the incident.

Authorities have assured residents that joint security operations are currently underway in the area, with reinforcements deployed to maintain peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order. The police further appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could aid in the arrest of those behind the attack.

The command expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the people of the community, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

The Governor made this disclosure while speaking on the persistent violence that has plagued the state since 2001, a crisis he and other stakeholders have previously described as targeted and genocidal. 

The figures underscore the scale of the humanitarian tragedy and the devastating impact of the attacks on the social and economic fabric of Plateau State, once known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”

The attacks, which have targeted numerous local government areas, have led to the displacement of tens of thousands of residents. 

In addition to the staggering death toll, the destruction of infrastructure, farmlands, and homes across the 420 affected communities has created a long-term crisis of internal displacement and trauma for victims.

The Governor emphasized the urgent need for a decisive and comprehensive security approach to end the cycle of violence and allow displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes. 

Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served for the victims. He stressed that his government is taking firm steps to secure the state, emphasizing that impunity for these violent acts must end to restore lasting peace.

He noted that the creation of special security task forces and community engagement initiatives are central to the state’s strategy to halt the attacks and rebuild trust among various ethnic and religious groups. The government is also said to be working to implement policies aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict, including land disputes and poverty.

The attack occurred around 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2025, according to a surviving eyewitness. The assailants reportedly fired shots into the air before attacking villagers. The violent incident lasted more than two hours, during which the gunmen also burned down houses and either destroyed and stole harvested crops.

In a statement, the Mushere Youth movement, through its national publicity secretary, Kutyil Gashion Nahum, confirmed the deaths of six innocent villagers, including women and children, and stated that several others were missing.

“On the night of Sunday, 14th September, 2025, about six innocent persons, including women and children, were brutally murdered in their sleep in Ikn’gwakap, the Headquarters of Mushere Chiefdom. Several others remain missing, leaving families in fear, trauma, and uncertainty,” the statement read.

“It is both alarming and unacceptable that despite repeated attacks on Mushere communities, not a single perpetrator has been arrested or neutralized. This persistent failure highlights the urgent need for a total overhaul of the security architecture in the area.”

The group highlighted that this was just the latest in a series of attacks on their communities and expressed frustration that no perpetrators have been arrested.

They called for a complete overhaul of the security apparatus in the region and urged the government to fulfill its constitutional duty to protect its citizens. The group also encouraged residents to remain alert.

Mrs. Tinubu clarified that the substantial sum was not sourced from government coffers but was “personally raised” through her private philanthropic platform, the Renewed Hope Initiative. She stated her aim to utilize resources for national development rather than personal enrichment, underscoring that her love for the country is not politically motivated.

During her visit, the First Lady appealed to traditional leaders, urging them to prioritize peace in Plateau State. She also encouraged Nigerian children to embrace travel and exploration within the country, emphasizing the importance of protecting future generations from living in fear.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed profound gratitude for the First Lady’s visit and donation. He assured her of the unity among faith, traditional, and various societal leaders in their efforts to end the decades-long crisis and violence in the state. Governor Mutfwang commended the First Lady as a compassionate leader dedicated to uplifting humanity.

Dr Makut Macham, Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Simon Lalong, announced this in a statement on Wednesday.

The curfew was imposed on the local government following tensions sparked by the attack on Yelwa Zangam – a village in Zangam District of the state.

Governor Lalong said the 24-hour curfew will come into force from 4pm on August 25 until further notice.

“The proactive decision became necessary following imminent threat to lives and properties within the local government area and the need to forestall the breakdown of law and order,” the statement said.

“It will also enable security agencies deploy appropriately to maintain security as the search for the attackers of the villagers continues.

“The governor has appealed to the citizens of Jos North to cooperate with the government by abiding by the 24-hour curfew commencing 4pm, 25th August 2021, as security agencies have been mandated to ensure that those who violate the curfew are arrested.”

Over 30 Killed?

Speaking, Governor Lalong stated that the 6pm to 6am curfew in Jos South and Bassa LGAs still remains in place until further notice.

This will cover every member of the LGA except for those on essential duties such as health personnel, journalists, fire service and paramilitary and others, have been exempted from the curfew. Such persons were, however, asked to ensure they could provide their means of identification at all times.

“The Governor is calling for calm as he is seriously grieved by the attacks,” the statement added.

“He again sympathises with the victims but wants them to show restraint and allow the government to handle the matter to disallow hoodlums from taking advantage of the unfortunate situation to cause mayhem and destruction in the state.”

It was earlier reported of the attack on the village which left several people killed and many others injured on Tuesday night.

On a visit to the Plateau State Specialist Hospital on Wednesday where the victims were rushed to after the incident, it was discovered that no fewer than 16 bodies were moved to the morgue while others were receiving treatment.

According to eyewitnesses the corpses at the morgue do not include over 15 villagers whose bodies have yet to be evacuated after being burnt in their houses. Authorities have yet to give the actual figure of those who lost their lives to the incident.

Tribune Online learnt that the incident occurred at about 6:45 p.m. on Monday, in Pyem district of Mangu council area when armed bandits in their large number stormed the district to perform all sorts of atrocities including kidnapping and cattle rustling.

It was learnt that men of the Inspector General of Police Intelligent Response Team who arrived at the scene engaged the bandits in a gun duel that lasted for about two hours, six of the bandits were killed in the process while Danzakara and a local vigilante were also gunned down by the bandits.

However, the State Police Command in a statement signed by the State Police Public Relations, ASP Gabriel Ogaba, has confirmed the incident adding that the command received credible information about the activity of a notorious syndicate of gunrunners at Kwoi Village, in Mangu Local Government Area of the state.

“On receipt of the information, the IGP’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) based in Mangu, police operatives attached to Mangu Division, Operation Safe Haven and local vigilante were mobilised and swiftly raced to the area.

“On sighting the team, the hoodlums engaged them in a gun duel. But because of the tactical operational capability and superior gunfire of the operatives, six of the hoodlums were neutralised while others fled with various degrees of bullets wounds.”

The statement further pointed out that exhibits recovered from them include three AK 47 Rifles with Breach Nos 868, 106076 and 123487.

“Regrettably, one Insp. Abdulrahaman Isah, who is the Commander IGP’s Intelligence Response Team based in Mangu and one Hassan Mohammed a local vigilante gallantly paid the supreme price,” he said.

It added that the command has commenced investigation while efforts are being intensified to arrest other fleeing members of the syndicate.

Source: Nigerian Tribune