Tension erupted in the Gero community of Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State on Monday after suspected gunmen allegedly killed two women, triggering violent protests by residents.
The victims were reportedly found dead behind the Jos South Local Government Secretariat, sparking outrage across the community. Angry women and youths carried the bodies to the council secretariat, demanding justice and improved security.
The protesters barricaded the road leading to the secretariat, paralysing traffic for hours before the demonstration turned violent. Some youths vandalised parts of the secretariat, while security operatives moved in to restore order, The News Chronicle reports.
A local government official alleged that some protesters made unverified accusations against security personnel during the unrest, while a police officer was reportedly attacked.
Reacting to the incident, a resident, Mrs. Mary Chollom, condemned the killings, lamenting that women, children and farmers remain the worst hit by the persistent insecurity in Plateau State.
She urged the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government to strengthen security, intensify patrols and ensure those responsible for the killings are swiftly arrested and prosecuted.
Security presence was later reinforced in the area, although authorities were yet to issue an official statement on the incident, as of press time.
