Jos crisis: Communities that protected Christians, Muslims receive N1m reward

Residents of Anguwan Rogo and Anguwan Rukuba communities in Jos, Plateau State, have received ₦1 million for protecting members of different religious groups during recent violence in the area.

Each community received ₦500,000 in recognition of their efforts to shield residents during the attacks.

The reward was donated by Gwani Muhammad Adam Alkali, a former member of the House of Representatives.

Last Sunday, residents of Anguwan Rukuba reportedly protected several Muslims who were caught in the violence after gunmen attacked the community.

The victims were later handed over to security agencies and community leaders after the situation was brought under control.

Two days later, after the curfew imposed in the area was relaxed, fresh violence erupted in parts of Jos North Local Government Area.

During the incident, some Christians in Anguwan Rogo were reportedly protected by residents and later handed over safely to security personnel.

Alkali said the donation was meant to commend the communities for promoting peaceful coexistence.

He urged residents of other communities to emulate the gesture and prioritise humanity over religious differences.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, community representatives said their actions were motivated by a commitment to protect human lives.

Blessed Geoffrey, a resident of Anguwan Rukuba, said the community acted out of humanity.

His words: “What we did was simply put humanity first — protecting our neighbors regardless of their faith. hey are human beings like us, and if we have the chance to protect them, we can do it.”

He added that the gesture reinforces the belief that peaceful coexistence remains possible.

Muhammad Sulaiman, a resident of Anguwan Rogo, said the actions of both communities demonstrate that humanity transcends religion.

“What happened showed that humanity is above religion, and we are proud of what both communities achieved together. A human being is a human being irrespective of their religion.

“We appreciate Gwani for strengthening the bond between us and our Christian neighbours. We did not act for recognition, but for the sake of Allah,” he said.

At least 28 persons were killed when gunmen attacked Anguwan Rukuba, shooting indiscriminately before fleeing the community.