17 feared dead in Jos crisis

At least 17 persons were feared killed and many wounded, as crisis yesterday erupted in Nasarawa Gwong, part of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. 

The government has since imposed a dusk to dawn curfew even as the state police commissioner, Mr. Greg Ayangting could not confirm whether places of worship were destroyed. Daily Champion gathered that 35 suspects have been arrested. 

This is coming barely  three weeks after the presidential panel looking into the killings of November 28 2009 Jos North crisis sat to unravel the causes and implication of the last crisis in some parts of the same local government.

Though there are two versions to the cause of yesterday’s crisis, our Correspondent gathered that problem started when a man whose house was destroyed during the last crisis attempted to rebuild his home. Some youths reportedly attacked him because he did not consult them before embarking on the project.

However, another version said the conflict began from a football pitch where a local match took place among the youths of Dutse Ukwu. The said match ended in controversy as fans and players of both teams engaged themselves in a free-for-all which led to tension in the area.

A statement by the state police command said there was a breach of peace in the afternoon at Nasarawa Gwom, Jos, and that the police have been able to rise up to the challenges.
The statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Muhammed Lerama, urged citizens to go about their normal business and warned that the police are ready to deal with anyone who puts the law into his or her hand.

Areas mostly affected by the crisis apart from Nasarawa Gwom include, Bauchi road, Dutse Ukwu, Congo Russia, Sarkin Mangun, Sabon Layi, Alikazaure and Massalacin Jumaa.
Meanwhile, a statement on the imposed curfew signed by the state commissioner of information,. Mr. Gregory Yenlong advised residents to “strictly adhere to this directive as all efforts are being intensified to ensure the safety of live and properties”.

He called on the citizens to “cooperate with the police and security agencies charged with the responsibility of maintaining peace and order and to remain calm as government was doing everything possible to nip in the bud, the prevailing security situation.” 

 Champion

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