In a move aimed at calming tensions and restoring confidence, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured residents of Jos that the recent wave of violence will not recur, following a deadly attack that claimed at least 28 lives and left 22 others injured.
During a visit to the troubled city, the President struck an emotional tone as he addressed victims’ families, acknowledging their grief and emphasizing that no amount of compensation could replace lost lives. His remarks were particularly directed at a grieving mother whose distress captured national attention in a viral video, reinforcing the human toll of the crisis.
Beyond condolences, Tinubu positioned his visit as a turning point, pledging a shift from reactive responses to proactive peace-building. He stressed that his administration, alongside the Caleb Mutfwang-led government, was elected to deliver peace and prosperity—not to preside over recurring violence.
A key highlight of the visit was the announcement of a major security intervention: the planned deployment of over 5,000 surveillance cameras across Jos. The initiative, to be supervised by Bosun Tijani, is expected to strengthen intelligence gathering and enable faster identification of criminal elements.
Tinubu also issued a direct charge to security agencies, including the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police, urging them to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the attacks. He underscored the need for decisive action, stressing that justice must go beyond sympathy.
Reflecting on Jos’ past as a peaceful and vibrant city, the President called for a collective effort to restore its legacy, noting that the city had historically served as a hub for social, political, and economic activities without incident.
Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, described the recent violence as a “temporary setback,” expressing optimism that Plateau State would overcome its security challenges. He commended security agencies for their often-unseen efforts in preventing attacks, while acknowledging the public frustration that follows security breaches.
The visit comes at a critical time, as renewed attacks in parts of Plateau have raised questions about the effectiveness of ongoing security strategies. While Tinubu’s assurances and proposed interventions signal intent, the real test will lie in translating commitments into sustained peace on the ground.
As Plateau grapples with recurring violence, stakeholders say the focus must now shift from promises to measurable outcomes—ensuring that communities not only feel reassured but genuinely secure.