Residents of communities in Plateau State have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the manner in which Bola Tinubu engaged victims of recent violent attacks in the state, criticizing his decision to address them at an airport rather than visiting the affected areas.
The backlash followed the President’s brief stopover, during which he met with a group of victims, local leaders, and government officials at the airport. While the visit was intended to convey sympathy and assess the situation, many residents described the approach as inadequate and detached from the realities on the ground.
Community members argued that a visit to the actual scenes of the attacks would have demonstrated deeper empathy and a clearer commitment to understanding the scale of destruction and loss suffered by victims. According to several locals, the airport meeting created the impression of a rushed engagement that fell short of expectations, especially given the severity of the violence that has affected multiple communities.
Some youth groups and civil society representatives voiced concern that the President’s interaction did not provide enough opportunity for victims to fully express their grievances. They maintained that direct engagement within the communities would have allowed for a more comprehensive assessment of urgent needs, including humanitarian assistance, security reinforcement, and rehabilitation efforts.
Traditional leaders and local stakeholders also called for more decisive and visible federal intervention to address the recurring security challenges in the state. They emphasized the need for sustained military presence, improved intelligence gathering, and long-term strategies to prevent further attacks.
Despite the criticism, government officials present at the meeting defended the President’s actions, stating that logistical and security considerations influenced the decision to hold the interaction at the airport. They added that the administration remains committed to restoring peace in Plateau and ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary support.
The situation in parts of Plateau State has remained tense following recent attacks that led to loss of lives, displacement of residents, and destruction of property. Many residents are now urging the federal government to move beyond symbolic gestures and implement concrete measures that will guarantee safety and stability across the region.