President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday visited Plateau State in the wake of recent killings where he assured the residents of the Federal government’s resolve to stem the wave of deadly attacks in the state.
The president ordered a security overhaul anchored on the deployment of over 5,000 artificial intelligence (AI) enabled surveillance cameras across the state.
In a meeting with the grieving residents, families of victims, traditional rulers, community and religious leaders, as well as government officials at the Yakubu Gowon airport venue in Jos, Tinubu reiterated that the March 29 killings in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, would not be repeated.
He promised decisive action against those responsible.
“I promise you that this experience will not repeat itself,” Tinubu said, his voice firm with determination.
“We will do everything possible to ensure that justice is served and that peace returns to the Plateau,” he added.
The President’s visit came amid heightened tension following the attack. The death toll was given as 29 by Governor Caleb Muftwang.
He said the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, would coordinate the installation of the cameras in partnership with security agencies and the Plateau State Government.
Tinubu said: “The deployment will begin immediately in Jos and extend across the state.
“We are leveraging technology to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve response time and ultimately save lives.”
“This is not just about reacting to crime; it is about preventing it,” he added.
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Tinubu also issued a direct order to top security chiefs, charging them to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.
Addressing the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), the Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, the President said: “You must unearth and find the killers. There must be no hiding place for those who take innocent lives.”
He commended the efforts of the armed forces and the police but stressed that more must be done to restore confidence among residents.
“I thank the men and women of our armed forces and the police for what they are doing and what they are about to do. Nigerians are counting on you,” he said.
Tinubu, who empathised with victims and their families, acknowledged the depth of grief caused by the attacks, stressing that no amount of compensation could replace lost lives.
He said: “It is only God that can give you joy and comfort,” he told bereaved families at a meeting held at the arrival lounge of Yakubu Gowon Airport.
“No amount of money can recompense for lost souls.”
He, however, assured that the Federal Government would provide meaningful support to ease their suffering.
“We will not abandon you. We will stand with you in this difficult time and ensure that those affected receive the support they deserve,” he said.
To ensure a coordinated response, the President directed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro, to compile a comprehensive database of victims and affected communities.
“We want to make sure that assistance reaches everyone equitably. No one should be left behind,” he said.
Beyond immediate security measures, Tinubu urged political, traditional and community leaders in Plateau to reflect on past crises and work collectively to prevent a recurrence.
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