Social Media Fuels Violence in Plateau State Clashes

Plateau State has faced ongoing communal violence, particularly in Jos, with a significant crisis beginning on 11 September 2001. The events from February to April 2026 marked a new phase where social media amplified violence.

On 23 February 2026, suspected Fulani gunmen attacked Dorowa Babuje village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, resulting in seven deaths. This led to community youths blocking a main road, where four travelers were killed, escalating tensions.

Social media played a crucial role, with posts from Civic Media News and a voice recording by Murtala Mai Igiya spreading information rapidly. During Ramadan, claims of impending reprisals circulated, including a warning from Sharfaddeen Bature that was later misrepresented.

A video of Ezekiel Dachomo warning about insurgents was also recirculated. The situation culminated in violence on 29 March 2026, when unknown gunmen shot people in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North, leading to further escalation.