JOS — President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to go after those responsible for the recent killings in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos North LGA of Plateau State. He also extended his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
The attack, which happened on Palm Sunday, saw suspected gunmen storm a well-known bar in the community. According to the Plateau State Police Command, more than 28 people lost their lives, while several others were left injured.
Speaking during a town hall meeting in Jos, the state capital, Tinubu expressed deep sympathy, noting that no financial compensation could ever make up for the loss of loved ones.
“There’s nothing I can give—no matter how much—that can replace what you’ve lost. I understand the pain you’re going through. Only God can truly comfort you,” he said.
He assured victims’ families that the federal government would offer support and ensure justice is served. He also praised the swift response of security agencies, while stressing that those behind the attacks must be found and punished.
“We cannot allow this kind of violence to go unchallenged. The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice,” the President stated.
As part of efforts to strengthen security in Plateau State, Tinubu announced plans to install 5,000 CCTV cameras across the state. According to him, the surveillance system will help security agencies monitor activities more effectively and respond quickly to threats.
He also directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to document all victims and assess their losses, so that appropriate assistance can be provided.
Expressing frustration over the repeated violence, Tinubu said both he and the state governor were elected to promote peace, not to preside over continuous loss of lives.
“We were elected to build a peaceful and prosperous society, not to witness constant killings,” he added, urging residents and community leaders to work together to end the cycle of violence.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in his remarks, welcomed the President and noted that the state had been relatively peaceful before the recent attack disrupted progress and investment opportunities. He described the incident as a setback but expressed hope that stability would return with federal support.
Former governor Jonah Jang also addressed the gathering, requesting a follow-up meeting with the President in Abuja to discuss long-term solutions.
Other stakeholders, including APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, Senator Simon Lalong, and the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, expressed solidarity with victims and support for ongoing efforts to restore peace.
Fresh Attacks Raise More Concern
Despite ongoing interventions, fresh violence has continued to unsettle residents.
On Wednesday night, gunmen reportedly attacked a community in Heipang, close to Plateau State Polytechnic. One person was killed on the spot, while others were injured. Sadly, one of the injured later died in hospital, bringing the total number of deaths to two.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers struck around 11 p.m., firing sporadically and causing panic among residents and students in the area.
A student, Nanchip Dube, described the situation as chaotic, with people running in different directions to escape the gunfire.
The incident disrupted activities in the community, with many residents choosing to stay indoors out of fear.
In a separate incident, a 27-year-old man, Amos Monday, was reportedly killed in Riyom LGA after gunmen ambushed a group of youths along a rural road.
Community leaders have since urged residents in surrounding areas—including Kwi, Wereng, Jos South, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom—to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.
Army and Police Step Up Response
In response to the worsening situation, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, visited Plateau State with a team of senior military officials to assess the situation firsthand.
Following the visit, the Army deployed over 850 additional troops to the state to reinforce ongoing operations under Operation Enduring Peace. These troops were mobilized from Abuja and Kaduna.
Similarly, Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, also visited the state to evaluate the situation and show support to affected communities.
He condemned the killings, describing them as unacceptable, and assured that those responsible would be tracked down. He added that more police personnel, including specialized tactical units, had been deployed to strengthen security operations.
Stakeholders Call for Stronger Action
Reactions have continued to pour in, with various groups calling for more decisive action.
The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria urged the federal government to move beyond routine condemnations and take concrete steps to stop the violence. The group emphasized the need for strong political will, improved intelligence gathering, and better coordination among security agencies.
Similarly, the Evangelical Church Winning All condemned the attacks, describing them as a serious violation of human life and dignity.
Its president, Job Ayuba Bagat, expressed concern over the growing number of killings and kidnappings, including a recent abduction in Kwara State. He called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s security system and intensified efforts to rescue abducted victims.
Atiku Criticises Tinubu’s Visit
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticised Tinubu’s visit to Plateau State, accusing him of failing to connect directly with the affected communities.
In a statement released by his aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the visit as a staged event that focused more on appearances than genuine empathy.
He argued that the President did not go beyond the airport to meet victims or witness the devastation firsthand.
“It’s disappointing that days after such a tragic event, the President’s visit was limited to the airport and did not extend to the grieving communities,” the statement read.
Atiku also alleged that some residents were transported to the airport to create a staged appearance, calling the move insensitive.
He further stated that Nigerians are not looking for symbolic visits but expect real leadership that ensures safety and protects lives.
“They don’t need to see the President—they need to feel the impact of his leadership,” he concluded.
