UJ

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An atmosphere of fear has gripped Jos, Plateau State, as students of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) and nearby residents raise alarm over threats to their safety following renewed unrest in parts of the city.

Concerns have intensified with reports that some students are unable to leave the campus and their hostels due to the violence. This has led to urgent appeals for security agencies to step in and ensure their protection.

A social media user, Rhoda Nanre, circulated a distress message that urged Nigerians to draw the attention of top authorities to the situation. “We are calling on all friends and comrades to tag the Nigerian president and IGP to urgently send protection to Jos especially UNIJOS NOW!!!! They are so scared,” she wrote.

The University of Jos Alumni Association also issued a statement on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The statement was signed by its Global President, Gad Peter Shamaki. It expressed concern over the rising tension affecting students, staff, and residents within Jos North Local Government Area. “The University of Jos Alumni Association expresses deep concern over the recent rise in tension and reported threats affecting students, staff and the broader university community within Jos North Local Government Area,” the statement read.

The association called on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to increase protection across campuses, student hostels, and residential areas. It also urged authorities to secure major routes used by students and staff. “We specifically request round-the-clock patrols, intelligence-led surveillance, and rapid response units to ensure that any potential threats are proactively addressed and swiftly neutralized,” the statement added.

Students have been advised to remain indoors, stay alert, and report suspicious activities as events continue to unfold.

A Jos-based media outlet, JayFM, also highlighted the urgency of the situation. It reported the need for security deployment around the university, especially near the students’ village hostel. “There’s the need for urgent security deployment to the University of Jos environment, precisely the students village hostel. This followed a distress call by students who appear to be stranded in the face of provocation by some hoodlums,” the report stated.

The tension follows earlier incidents in Anguwan Rukuba area of Jos North, where a church was attacked by suspected youths. Witnesses described panic as violence broke out, with residents fleeing for safety. The unrest is linked to a previous deadly attack earlier in the week.

Although security personnel were later deployed, some residents and community leaders criticised what they described as a slow response and insufficient protection.

Reports indicate that violence has spread to several parts of Jos. Eyewitnesses said armed youths took control of key areas, attacked residents and travellers, and destroyed properties. There are also claims that major entry and exit routes have been affected, with some travellers reportedly assaulted.

The situation has forced many residents to flee, as confusion and fear continue to grow across the city.