Tinubu's Plateau Visit Earns Praise Amid Calls for Joint Security Strategy
President Bola Tinubu's recent visit to victims of attacks in Plateau State has garnered commendation from the Middle Belt Peace Forum (MBPF), who described the gesture as a demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership. The socio-political group issued a statement in Jos, signed by National Coordinator Pastor Bulus Garba, applauding the President for suspending a scheduled engagement in Iperu, Ogun State, to prioritize the Plateau crisis. This move, according to the Forum, reflects a leadership style grounded in compassion and public accountability, sending a strong signal of solidarity to affected communities and reinforcing confidence in the Federal Government's commitment to protecting lives and property.
Condemnation of Perpetrators and Calls for Decisive Action
The MBPF strongly condemned the perpetrators of the attacks, labeling them as cowards whose actions aim to instill fear and destabilize peaceful communities. They urged the Federal Government to respond with decisive action, emphasizing that such violence poses a direct threat to national unity and security. In their statement, the group stressed the need for a robust and immediate response to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of residents in the region.
Praise for Armed Forces and Emphasis on Security Synergy
While commending the Armed Forces of Nigeria under Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede for their sustained efforts to restore stability across troubled regions, the Forum highlighted the resilience and professionalism displayed in the face of complex security challenges. They noted that the military's role remains critical in reclaiming affected areas and safeguarding territorial integrity. However, the MBPF called for stronger synergy between security agencies, particularly urging the Nigeria Police Force to intensify efforts in stabilizing areas cleared of criminal elements. They emphasized that lasting peace requires a coordinated framework where the military secures territories while the police maintain law and order, enabling displaced residents to return and rebuild their communities.
Citizen Participation and Mixed Reactions to the Visit
The group further appealed to citizens across the Middle Belt to support security agencies through timely intelligence sharing and community cooperation, describing public participation as essential for sustainable peace. Meanwhile, the President's visit has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics questioning its brevity and the decision to receive victims at the airport rather than within affected communities. Responding to these concerns, the Presidency, through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, cited logistical constraints as influencing the format of the visit. Onanuga explained that the absence of navigational aids at the Jos airport, which restricts night operations, made it impractical for the President to travel into the city and return before dusk. Additionally, the President's schedule included a high-level bilateral meeting with Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, which extended beyond expected timelines.
Presidential Pledges and Optimism for Lasting Peace
Onanuga clarified that bringing representatives of affected communities to the airport ensured the President could engage with victims, listen to their concerns, and offer assurances without compromising safety and logistical requirements. During the visit, Tinubu reportedly pledged renewed federal intervention, including plans to deploy advanced surveillance infrastructure and convene further stakeholder engagements aimed at addressing the root causes of recurring violence in Plateau State. The MBPF expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, improved inter-agency coordination, and active citizen participation, lasting peace in the Middle Belt remains achievable. They reiterated their support for ongoing efforts to enhance security measures and foster a collaborative environment for peacebuilding in the region.
