Protest Erupts as Youths Disrupt Funeral of Plateau Attack Victims
Protesters on Tuesday disrupted a funeral at an ECWA church in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North LGA, Plateau State, following last month’s deadly attack on the community.
On March 29, gunmen killed at least 28 people and injured several others in the area, prompting outrage on social media and a 48-hour curfew imposed by the Plateau State government.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric and unprovoked.”
During a visit to the community on March 30, he assured residents that no mass burial would take place and that each victim would receive a dignified burial. “We will not allow mass burial. Government will work closely with the families to give each victim a befitting burial. They did not deserve to die in such a manner,” he said.
On Tuesday, a mass funeral service was held at the ECWA church for seven victims.
However, some youths interrupted the service, accusing security agencies of arresting three young men who allegedly defended the community during the attack.
The protesters, holding placards as captured in a video shared by News Central, demanded the release of the detainees before the burial could proceed.
“How will they come and kill us and still capture our boys, saying they are bandits? For what reason?” one of the protesters asked.
“This is wickedness of the highest level. If they don’t bring those boys, this funeral will not take place,” another added.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
