Anguwan Rukuba Group Distances Community from Protest, Calls for Peace in Jos
By Zagazola Makama
The Anguwan Rukuba Concern Group has distanced itself from a recent protest in Anguwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing it as unrepresentative of the community and urging residents to embrace peaceful dialogue in addressing grievances.
The position was reached during a peace meeting held on July 16 at the University of Jos Guest House, Dogon Dutse, under the leadership of former Jos North Local Government Council (Transitional Implementation Committee) Secretary, Hon. Solomon Danshutu Sanda.
Speaking at the meeting, Sanda said the group rejected any action capable of inciting violence or disrupting public peace, stressing that Anguwan Rukuba is a major transit route used daily by residents, students, traders and commuters from different communities.
He warned that protests in such a sensitive location could expose innocent residents, including women, children and students, to fear and insecurity.
Sanda urged individuals with political or governance-related grievances to seek redress through lawful channels and appropriate government institutions rather than staging demonstrations that could heighten tensions.
He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, unity and mutual respect among all residents, irrespective of ethnic or religious background.
According to him, members of the group would continue to promote harmony and support initiatives aimed at sustaining peace in the community.
Elders who attended the meeting endorsed the group’s position and dissociated themselves from the protest, insisting it did not reflect the views or interests of the people of Anguwan Rukuba.
They also cautioned against attempts to involve neighbouring Muslim communities in narratives surrounding the protest, warning that such actions could undermine the long-standing peaceful relationship among residents.
The elders appealed to community members to avoid inflammatory statements or actions capable of creating divisions or triggering renewed conflict.
Sanda further called on residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information capable of preventing threats to public order, while urging security agencies to remain proactive in addressing emerging security concerns.
Also speaking, Hon. Sati Zubairu urged both youths and elders to protect the reputation of Anguwan Rukuba by resisting attempts to use politics to foment unrest.
He said peace remained the foundation of development and called on all members of the community to work collectively towards preserving stability and social cohesion.
