Dare Babalola
President Bola Tinubu has finally responded to the deadly attacks in Plateau and Kaduna states, breaking his silence nearly 48 hours after the incidents that left several people dead and others abducted.
The President, in a statement issued on Tuesday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, strongly condemned the killings, describing the assailants as “barbaric” and their actions as unacceptable.
The attacks occurred in Angwan Rukuba area of Jos in Plateau State and Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where gunmen reportedly killed several residents and abducted others, including individuals attending a wedding.
Reacting to the incidents, Tinubu said the nature of the attacks—carried out under the cover of darkness against unarmed civilians—demonstrated cowardice and a deliberate attempt to ignite further violence.
“Anyone who sneaks under the cover of the night to kill defenceless citizens, as seen in Jos and Kahir village, is a heartless coward. These attacks are not just about causing harm but also aimed at triggering reprisals and deepening bloodshed,” the President said.
He directed security agencies to intensify operations to track down those responsible and prevent further escalation, stressing the need for swift intelligence-driven responses. The President also warned against the spread of misinformation capable of worsening tensions, particularly narratives framing the attacks along religious lines.
Tinubu called on security operatives to act proactively on early warning signals, insisting that all abducted victims from Kahir village must be rescued without delay.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts, the President commended Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for their roles in managing the crises and coordinating rescue operations.
“I commend Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his efforts in containing the situation in Jos and Governor Uba Sani for supporting rescue and containment operations. The Federal Government stands fully with the people of both states,” he added.
Tinubu also extended condolences to families of those killed and wished the injured a quick recovery, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving national security.
He revealed that steps were already underway to strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies, including the acquisition of advanced equipment to enhance real-time tracking and response to criminal activities across the country.
