‘We have lost over 4,700 members since 2001’ — Plateau Muslim Community

The Jasawa Community Development Association (JCDA) says the Muslim community in Jos, Plateau State, has lost more than 4,700 members to violent crises recorded in the state since 2001. The disclosure was made during a prayer session held on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Jos Central Mosque, where members gathered for the 17th annual commemoration of victims of the recurring unrest.

Speaking at the event, JCDA National President Yawale Muhammad said the community has kept detailed records of Muslims killed in the crises of 2001, 2002, 2004, 2008, 2010, and other incidents, noting that the accumulated figure now exceeds 4,700. According to him, the 2008 violence that followed the local government elections in Jos North was among the most devastating, with hundreds of Muslims killed.

Muhammad said the gathering was dedicated to remembering men, women, and children lost across multiple councils in the state. He described November 28 as a solemn date that captures the collective grief of the community, serving as a moment for reflection, mourning, and renewed commitment to peace.

He provided a breakdown of the deaths recorded over the years, stating that more than 700 Muslims were killed in 2001, while hundreds died during the 2002 clashes in Eto Baba, Jos. He recalled that at least 700 Muslims were killed in the 2004 Yelwa-Shendam crisis. The 2008 post-election unrest claimed more than 1,000 lives, while the 2010 attacks across Dutse Uku, Gero, Kuru Jenta, and other areas resulted in more than 2,000 deaths. Muhammad added that the 2011 incident at the Rukuba Road Eid ground left 20 worshippers dead, and the 2021 Rukuba Road attack claimed hundreds of Muslim travellers. He said the community has multiple mass graves across the state, including at Jos Zaria Road, Narkuta, Dadin Kowa, and Yelwa Shendam.

A community leader, Alhaji Shehu Masalla, said the date holds deep meaning for Muslims in the area, not only because of the lives lost but also due to the destruction of property valued at millions of naira. He described the annual remembrance as an important moment for the community.

Leading the prayers, Malam Hamisu Umaru said the session was dedicated to the victims and to seeking divine support for lasting peace in Plateau State. He added that true development is impossible without harmony among people of different ethnic and religious backgrounds.