Plateau Killings: Outrage as Tinubu Addresses Victims at Airport, Residents Fume
Fresh outrage has erupted across Plateau State following the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who chose to address stakeholders at the Yakubu Gowon Airport rather than visiting the scene of the recent Palm Sunday killings or injured victims in hospital.
The attack, which occurred in Gari Yawaye community of Angwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area, claimed over 30 lives and left many others injured.
While the President’s physical absence from the affected community has sparked criticism, his remarks at the airport have also drawn intense scrutiny.
What Tinubu Said at the Airport (Key Highlights)
During the meeting with stakeholders, Tinubu made several remarks aimed at addressing the crisis:
1. He condemned the killings, describing the attack as “senseless and unacceptable violence.”
2. He assured residents that his administration remains committed to restoring peace in Plateau State.
3. Tinubu stated that security agencies have been directed to bring perpetrators to justice swiftly.
4. He emphasized the need for unity among communities, urging residents not to allow division.
5. The President called on traditional and religious leaders to support peace-building efforts.
6. He noted that Plateau remains strategic to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
7. Tinubu promised increased security presence and intelligence operations in troubled areas.
8. He appealed for calm and restraint, warning against reprisals.
9. The President said the Federal Government would support victims and affected families.
10.He reiterated that his government “feels the pain of the people” and stands with Plateau in this difficult time.
Residents Reject “Distant Sympathy”
Despite these assurances, many residents described the President’s approach as detached and lacking empathy.
Critics argue that while his words at the airport touched on security and unity, his failure to visit the affected community or hospitals weakened the emotional weight of his message.
A resident, Kacholom Luka, questioned the logic behind the venue:
“Are the injured being brought to the airport for him to see? Should he not be visiting them in the hospital?”
Others were more blunt, describing the visit as a missed opportunity to demonstrate leadership in a moment of grief.
Growing Public Anger
Several commentators took to social media to express frustration, with some accusing the President of turning a moment of mourning into a political formality.
Another resident, Bright Gyang, described the situation as:
“A leader sympathizing from an armored setting far away from the victims.”
For many, the issue was not just what Tinubu said — but where he said it from.
A Familiar Pattern?
Some observers noted that this is not the first time the President has been criticized for failing to visit attack sites directly, referencing past incidents in other states.
This has fueled a broader narrative among critics that Nigeria’s political leadership often prioritizes optics over genuine connection with affected citizens.
The Bigger Question
While Tinubu’s speech contained strong commitments on security, justice, and unity, the backlash highlights a deeper concern:
Can words delivered from a distance truly comfort people in the middle of tragedy?
For many in Plateau, the answer appears to be no.
