Why Tinubu met victims of Plateau attacks at Jos airport

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu’s decision to meet victims of the recent Plateau attacks at the Jos airport, rather than in town, was a calculated response to flight safety constraints and a packed schedule, according to a State House press release.

The release, issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, detailed how Tinubu suspended a trip to Ogun State after briefing from Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang. Overnight arrangements shifted focus to Jos, but a prolonged bilateral meeting with Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno on security collaboration delayed departure.

Upon landing, night flight restrictions at Jos airport – due to missing navigational aids – and a 40-minute road trip to town made an on-site visit impossible before dusk. “State and federal officials decided to bring representatives of the affected community to a hall adjoining the airport so the President could meet with them promptly while adhering to flight restrictions,” the statement explained.

High-level officials, including the Minister of Defence, Chief of Army Staff, and Inspector General of Police, had already assessed Rukuba, the conflict’s epicenter, paving the way for Tinubu’s engagement.

“President Tinubu’s visit to Jos was not merely symbolic. It was a strategic, high-level engagement aimed at bringing all stakeholders together to address the root causes of conflict and insecurity in the state,” Onanuga stated.

Tinubu consoled victims, listened to local leaders, and pledged action. “He assured them that the federal government would deliver justice and end the cycle of violence. He promised the deployment of 5000 AI-enabled cameras to monitor the city and enhance the identification and arrest of troublemakers,” the release noted.  He also invited community leaders to Abuja for follow-up talks.