FG Offers ‘Lip Service’ Amid Plateau Bloodshed—Adebayo
The Social Democratic Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, has publicly criticized the Federal Government’s handling of Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation following a deadly attack in Plateau State that claimed at least 29 lives. Adebayo visited Anguwan Rukuba, the site of the March 29 assault, where he accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of offering only “lip service” while citizens continue to face violent attacks.
“The criminals who carried out this attack are not stronger than the government. If there is seriousness, they can be identified and brought to justice,” Adebayo stated during his visit to the grieving community. He maintained that the government possesses adequate capacity to protect citizens if genuine commitment exists, noting that the persistent loss of lives and destruction of property across the country reflects a failure of leadership.
The attack on Anguwan Rukuba occurred on Sunday night, leaving dozens injured and the community in mourning. Adebayo commiserated with residents and urged them to remain vigilant while calling on authorities to take decisive action to prevent future incidents.
President Tinubu visited Jos on Thursday to console victims’ families, meeting with bereaved relatives at a hall near the airport. During the engagement, captured in widely circulated footage, the President was seen personally comforting a grieving mother. He assured attendees of his administration’s determination to break the cycle of violence, declaring, “This experience will not repeat itself.”
As part of security enhancement measures, Tinubu announced plans to deploy 5,000 AI-enabled surveillance cameras across Jos to improve intelligence gathering and monitoring capabilities. He also extended invitations to community leaders for dialogue in Abuja aimed at achieving sustainable peace.
However, the President’s decision to hold consultations at the airport rather than visiting affected neighborhoods or hospitals drew criticism from some Plateau residents, who interpreted the arrangement as detached from the ground realities of the tragedy. The Presidency responded by citing logistical constraints, including scheduling pressures and aviation regulations requiring departure before nightfall.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang received the President during the visit, which came four days after the attack. The delayed federal response and the airport venue selection have added to public scrutiny of the administration’s crisis management approach.
Tensions remain elevated across Plateau State as security agencies continue operations to restore stability. Authorities have appealed for calm while the government pursues both technological solutions and community dialogue to address the recurring violence.