FG Explains Why President Tinubu Met Plateau Victims at Jos Airport

By Patrick Isaac

The Presidency has detailed why President Bola Tinubu addressed victims of the recent Plateau attacks at Jos airport rather than the affected communities.

Friday’s statement from Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the president, Bayo Onanuga cited logistical and scheduling constraints.

Tinubu’s Thursday schedule included hosting Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno at the Presidential Villa, then heading to Iperu, Ogun State.

Briefed by Plateau Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Tinubu halted the Ogun trip and organized an urgent Jos visit overnight. But the Chad bilateral centered on security ties stretched longer than planned, pushing back his flight.

Arriving in Jos at night, Tinubu hit another snag: the airport runway lacks navigational aids for dark operations. Officials thus brought community representatives to a hall near the airport.

“President Tinubu’s itinerary included receiving the Chadian President. The meeting ran longer than expected, affecting departure for Jos,” the statement explained.

Onanuga noted security chiefs like the Defence Minister, Army Chief, and IG of Police had already scouted Rukuba, the violence hotspot.

Tinubu consoled victims, consulted stakeholders, and vowed action against recurring attacks.

He pledged federal resolve for justice and peace, including 5,000 AI-enabled cameras to enhance security and nab culprits.