Jos: Three killed in violent attacks miles from EndSARS protest venues

Three people were Tuesday killed in violent attacks in Central Nigeria’s Jos, the Capital of Plateau State, Officials have said.

Governor Simon Lalong in a state broadcast blamed the killings on the Nationwide EndSARS protests.

“The protests led to the destruction of properties, cars and looting of business premises along the Ahmadu Bello way as well as the burning of a place of worship along Gyero Road in Bukuru. In addition, three deaths have been recorded,” the Governor said.

However, EndSARS protesters comprising Christians and Muslims were peacefully seated miles away from the scene of the violence, when it was reported.

Mr. Chagwa Solomon, an activist said EndSARS protests were restricted to the city centre.

“We have restricted our movements within the Old Airport area. The farthest we have gone is Zarmaganda and House of Assembly, which are both far away from Bukuru and Terminus,” Solomon said.

Miss Mariam Isa Ahmed, a University Undergraduate said the violence was caused by “sponsored thugs”.

“They are not part of us. We don’t know them. We have been peaceful and orderly,” she said.

The violence according to eyewitnesses started on Monday evening with sword bearing youths attacking EndSARS protesters near Zarmaganda roundabout in Jos South Local Government Area.

On Tuesday, the violence resumed at about 9am with armed thugs attacking businesses and motorists, burning cars and shops in Jos North’s Terminal area and Gero junction in the southern part of the city.

Some of the rioters shouted “Allahu Akbar” while attacking but they spared no one based on tribe or religion, it was gathered.

Officials have placed a 24hr curfew in the city to prevent further violence.