President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday visited Plateau State following the recent killings and he assured residents of the Federal government’s resolve to stem the tide of deadly attacks in the state.
The president ordered a security overhaul based on the deployment of more than 5,000 artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled surveillance cameras across the state.
In a meeting with bereaved residents, families of victims, traditional rulers, community and religious leaders, and government officials at the Yakubu Gowon airport venue in Jos, Tinubu reiterated that the March 29 killings in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, would not be repeated.
He promised strict action against those responsible.
“I promise you that this experience will not be repeated,” Tinubu said, his voice firm and determined.
“We will do everything possible to ensure justice is served and peace returns to the Highlands,” he added.
The President’s visit comes amid rising tensions following the attack. The death toll was stated as 29 people by Governor Caleb Muftwang.
He said Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijjani would coordinate the installation of the cameras in collaboration with security agencies and the Plateau State Government.
Tinubu said: “Deployment will start soon in Jos and expand across the state.
“We leverage technology to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve response times, and ultimately save lives.”
“It’s not just about reacting to crime; it’s about preventing it,” he added.
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Tinubu also issued direct orders to security chiefs, asking them to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.
Addressing the Minister of Defense, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), Chief of Army Staff, General Waidi Shaibu, and Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, the President said: “You must dig out and find the killers. There must be no hiding place for those who take innocent lives.”
He praised the efforts of the armed forces and police, but stressed that further efforts must be made to restore citizens’ trust.
“I thank the members of our armed forces and police for what they did and what they will do. Nigerians are counting on you,” he said.
Tinubu, who empathized with the victims and their families, acknowledged the depth of grief caused by the attack, and stressed that no amount of compensation could make up for the lives lost.
He said: “Only God can give you joy and comfort,” he told the bereaved families at a gathering held at the arrival hall of Yakubu Gowon Airport.
“No amount of money can reward lost souls.”
However, he assured that the Federal Government would provide meaningful support to alleviate their suffering.
“We will not abandon you. We will support you in this difficult time and ensure that those affected receive the support they deserve,” he said.
To ensure a coordinated response, the President directed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro, to compile a comprehensive database on victims and affected communities.
“We want to ensure aid reaches everyone fairly. No one should be left behind,” he said.
In addition to urgent security measures, Tinubu urged political, traditional and community leaders in the Plateau to reflect on past crises and work collectively to prevent their recurrence.
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