Presidency Explains Airport Meeting with Plateau Attack Victims Amid Criticism

The Presidency on Friday defended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to meet victims of the recent Plateau killings at a facility near the Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos, citing operational and security constraints that prevented a visit to the affected communities.

The explanation follows criticism from opposition figures and sections of the public who questioned why the President did not proceed to Angwan Rukuba, where gunmen killed at least 28 people during a Palm Sunday attack in Jos North Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the government said aviation limitations played a key role in the decision. According to the Presidency, the Jos airport lacks navigational aids required for night operations, making it difficult for the President to travel into the city and return before nightfall.

Officials therefore arranged for victims and community representatives to be transported to a secure location close to the airport to enable timely engagement. The statement stressed that the visit was not symbolic but part of broader efforts to address recurring violence in Plateau State.

The President’s trip came after a security briefing by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, which prompted him to cancel an earlier engagement in Ogun State. However, his departure was delayed by a bilateral meeting with Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno focused on regional security cooperation—an issue closely linked to insurgency and cross-border threats in Nigeria’s North-East and North-Central regions.

During the engagement in Jos, Tinubu reportedly met with grieving families, including a mother whose loss had drawn national attention, and pledged justice for victims. He also announced new security measures, including the deployment of surveillance infrastructure and additional troops to stabilise the state.

Plateau State has witnessed recurring ethno-religious violence for decades, with past attacks in areas such as Barkin Ladi and Bokkos leaving hundreds dead and thousands displaced.

Despite the Presidency’s defence, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticised the approach, describing it as insufficiently empathetic.

Analysts say the debate reflects broader expectations for visible leadership during national crises, particularly in regions grappling with persistent insecurity.

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