JOS, Nigeria — Tension spread across parts of Jos, the capital of Plateau State, on Wednesday as traders abruptly shut their shops and fled markets following a sudden wave of panic whose cause was not immediately clear.
Witnesses described scenes of confusion, with residents and business owners running in different directions as fear rippled through major commercial areas, including Taminus market.
“I was attending to customers when I saw people running. Nobody could explain what was happening, but I had to lock up immediately and run for my life,” said Alex Amechi, a trader in the market.
Another shop owner, Harris Ugo, said the reaction was driven by uncertainty. “There was confusion everywhere. Once I saw others running, I didn’t wait to ask questions. I just secured my shop and left,” he said.
Recent Violence Heightens Anxiety
The panic comes in the aftermath of a series of deadly attacks in Plateau State.
On Palm Sunday, gunmen attacked communities in Bassa Local Government Area, including Zikke village, where at least 51 people were killed.
Residents said homes were burned and families, including women and children, were among the victims.
The violence followed another attack in Angwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area, where at least 28 people were killed and several others injured.
President Bola Tinubu condemned the attacks and ordered an investigation.
However, some local leaders have accused authorities of failing to provide adequate security, raising concerns about the government’s response to recurring violence in the region.
Curfew and Security Measures
In response to the attacks, the Plateau State Government imposed a 48-hour curfew across affected areas.
Authorities later relaxed the restriction, allowing movement between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. beginning April 1, citing improved security conditions.
Despite the adjustment, fear remains widespread, with residents expressing concern about possible further attacks or reprisals.
Uncertainty Over Cause of Panic
The immediate cause of Wednesday’s panic in Jos markets remained unclear at the time of reporting.
However, the reaction reflected heightened anxiety across the city following the recent violence.
The attacks have intensified concerns about ongoing insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where communities have faced repeated incidents of violence.
Efforts to reach Alfred Alabo, the police public relations officer for the Plateau State Command, were unsuccessful.
