FG: Jos Killings Not a Sign of National Security Breakdown — Idris

The federal government has said the recent killings in the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos North LGA of Plateau State occurred in a conflict-prone community and do not indicate a breakdown of national security.

At least 28 residents were killed in the attack on Sunday.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday at Radio House in Abuja, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, said security operatives are pursuing those responsible for the attack.

He conveyed the federal government’s condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Plateau State.

“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government of Nigeria, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Plateau State,” he said.

Idris said security agencies responded swiftly after distress calls from the affected community.

“Troops under Operation Enduring Peace were rapidly mobilised to the scene following distress calls,” he said.

“The military and other security agencies cordoned off the affected area, secured key access routes, and launched search-and-clearance operations to track down the perpetrators.

“These actions ensured the situation was quickly contained and prevented further escalation.”

Ongoing Operations Across North-central

He said the response forms part of ongoing security operations across Plateau and the north-central region.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces have continued clearance operations and intelligence-led missions across vulnerable communities following attacks recorded in recent months,” he said.

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“Surveillance has been reinforced in high-risk areas, with additional troop deployments, joint military-police patrols, and strengthened rapid response mechanisms.”

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property through sustained nationwide security efforts.

Tinubu Meets Security Chiefs, Invites Mutfwang

He also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had met with security and intelligence chiefs to assess the situation and consider further steps.

“A few hours ago, the president held a high-level meeting with the nation’s top security and intelligence chiefs to review the situation and take further decisive steps towards a lasting solution,” Idris said.

He added that Caleb Mutfwang, governor of Plateau State, has been invited for further consultations.

“Following this meeting, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has been invited by President Tinubu to deliberate and chart a coordinated path towards lasting peace and security,” he said.

“The outcome of the meeting will be made public in due course.”

Idris said a 48-hour curfew was imposed in Jos North shortly after the incident to stabilise the area and support ongoing operations.

FG Vows Justice, Urges Calm

He maintained that the attack was a criminal act in a volatile area and not a sign of systemic security failure.

“What occurred does not represent a breakdown of national security, but rather a criminal act within a known conflict-prone area — one that is being actively addressed by the authorities,” he said.

The minister said security agencies have been directed to arrest those responsible and bring them to justice.

“There will be no safe haven for criminal elements anywhere in Nigeria,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that could heighten tensions.

“Nigeria’s unity remains strong, and we must not allow criminal elements to divide our communities,” Idris said.

“Nigeria will not yield to fear. We will protect our people, and we will prevail.”