Plateau Residents Fault Tinubu Over Airport Address to Attack Victims

Some residents of Plateau State have criticised President Bola Tinubu’s handling of his condolence visit following the recent deadly attack in Gari Yawaye, Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area.

 

The President visited the state on Thursday to commiserate with victims of the Palm Sunday attack, which left over 30 people dead and several others injured. However, instead of visiting the affected community or hospitals where victims are receiving treatment, Tinubu addressed stakeholders at the Yakubu Gowon Airport in Heipang before departing the state.

 

The development has drawn backlash from residents, many of whom described the approach as lacking empathy.

 

Several citizens, reacting on social media, questioned why the President chose to remain at the airport—located a significant distance from the scene of the attack—rather than engage directly with victims and affected families.

 

Some critics argued that a visit to hospitals or the impacted community would have conveyed stronger solidarity and compassion, while others described the airport engagement as symbolic rather than impactful.

 

Others also raised concerns about the composition of those present at the airport, noting that political leaders and stakeholders were in attendance, while victims and their families were absent.

 

The reactions highlight broader concerns about leadership response during national tragedies, with many residents emphasising that physical presence at affected locations often provides reassurance and emotional support to grieving communities.

 

The Presidency has yet to respond to the criticisms as of press time.

 

The visit comes amid heightened security concerns in Plateau State, following renewed violence that has drawn national attention and calls for stronger government intervention.