In a solemn gathering on Friday, the Muslim community in Jos, Plateau state capital, observed its 17th annual commemoration prayer for over 4,700 individuals who lost their lives in various communal crises across the region. This annual event, held every November 28 at the Jos Central Mosque, began with heartfelt recitations from the Holy Qur’an, seeking eternal rest for those who perished, particularly after the devastating 2008 local government election violence that claimed hundreds of lives.
Remembering Decades of Conflict: The Toll on Plateau's Muslim Population
Reflecting on two decades of intermittent conflict, the community highlighted the profound human cost since the crises first erupted in 2001, claiming thousands of lives across numerous local government areas of Plateau state. Yawale Muhammad, National President of the Jasawa Community Development Association (JCDA), underscored the significance of November 28 as a day for deep reflection, mourning, truth-telling, prayer, and a renewed commitment to peace. He stated, "For us, every 28th November, is not just another date on the calendar. It is a date that subsumed other dates in which unfortunate crises had befalling us. It is also set aside for sober reflection, mourning, truth-telling, prayer and renewed resolve."
Documenting the tragic losses, Muhammad recounted specific incidents: over 700 Muslims killed in 2001, hundreds attacked in Eto Baba, Jos, in 2002, and at least 700 fatalities from the 2004 Yelwa-Shendam crisis. The post-election unrest in Jos in 2008 alone resulted in over 1,000 Muslim deaths. Subsequent multi-location attacks in 2010, including Dutse Uku, Gero, and Kuru Jenta, reportedly claimed more than 2,000 Muslim lives. Further violence in 2011 at the Rukuba Road Eid praying ground left 20 worshippers dead, and the 2021 Rukuba Road incident tragically claimed hundreds of Muslim travelers returning from a condolence visit. According to JCDA records, the cumulative loss stands at 4,700 lives, with mass graves located at Jos Zaria Road, Narkuta, Dadin Kowa, and Yelwan Shendam Muslim cemeteries, among others, marking these profound losses in Nigeria General News.
The Enduring Impact: Losses Beyond Lives and the Call for Peace
Beyond the devastating human toll, these prolonged periods of unrest have resulted in significant financial losses. Alhaji Shehu Masalla, a respected community leader, emphasized the broader impact, stating that "We have lost property worth millions of naira. This day is very significant for us." The material destruction compounds the emotional and social trauma experienced by the affected communities, hindering economic progress and stability.
A Community's Resolve: Annual Prayer for Unity and Development
Malam Hamisu Umaru, who led the prayer session, highlighted its dual purpose: to honor the victims and to fervently seek Allah's intervention for lasting peace and unity among the state's diverse ethnic and religious groups. He stressed that genuine development can only thrive in an environment of peace, underscoring the community’s unwavering commitment to fostering harmony and mutual respect. The annual prayer serves as a powerful reminder of the past, a call for justice, and a collective aspiration for a future free from conflict.