President Tinubu Commits to Restoring Peace in Plateau State
During a visit to Plateau State on Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with local officials at the Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos, following a recent violent incident in Angwan Rukuba. The President emphasized his administration’s unwavering stance against recurring violence in the region.
Focus on Establishing Lasting Peace
In a gathering that included traditional leaders, political figures, security chiefs, and community representatives, President Tinubu stated that his mission was not merely to mourn the tragedy but to foster peace and eliminate “the shackles of violence, ignorance, poverty, and despair.” His address resonated with a sense of urgency and collective responsibility among the leaders present.
Security as a Shared Responsibility
Speaking passionately, President Tinubu reminded officials of their duty to protect their constituents. “Governors, you and I were elected on the promise of peace and prosperity, not to create widows or comfort. I want to be here to establish peace,” he asserted, calling for commitment to uphold the security of the nation.
Government’s Immediate Response to Violence
Praising the efforts of both military and police forces, the President directed them to swiftly identify and apprehend those responsible for the recent surge in violence. He announced a series of immediate federal interventions, including the implementation of advanced surveillance technologies to enhance security measures.
Technological Solutions for Safety
President Tinubu outlined plans for a network of surveillance cameras intended to assist law enforcement in detecting and addressing disturbances promptly. “This technology will provide us with the tools to combat violence effectively,” he said, underscoring the importance of innovation in modern security practices.
Support for Affected Families
In addition, he instructed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs to conduct a thorough, data-driven assessment of victims, aiming to offer necessary support. “While we cannot bring back lost lives, we must provide minimum comfort to affected families,” he added, highlighting the need for compassionate governance during crises.
Positive Outlook from State Leadership
Governor Caleb Mutfan expressed gratitude for the President’s prompt response and commended security agencies for their efforts in thwarting attacks that might have been ignored. He characterized the recent violence as a “temporary setback,” expressing optimism that Plateau State can overcome its persistent security challenges. “Under your leadership, we have started to enjoy relative peace, and this incident is just a setback,” he stated confidently.
Military Reinforcements to Maintain Stability
In a strong military response, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Widi Shaibu ordered the deployment of over 850 troops from Abuja and Kaduna to bolster ongoing operations under Operation Enduring Peace. The military has been tasked with stabilizing unstable communities, ensuring civilian protection, and rebuilding trust within the population.
The COAS urged military personnel to maintain discipline and professionalism during operations, asserting that adequate logistics have been allocated to support their mission. The heightened troop presence aims to enhance security measures and provide reassurance to communities impacted by recent violence.
