‘No electricity at the airport’: Presidency explains why Tinubu failed to travel into Jos to meet victims
- Apr 4
- 2 min read
Tinubu’s Jos Visit Sparks Debate Amid Logistical Explanation from Presidency
The Presidency has responded to mounting criticism surrounding Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Jos, Plateau State, following the deadly March 29, 2026 attack that left dozens dead.
The controversy erupted after the President addressed victims at the airport rather than traveling into the city to assess the situation firsthand a decision that drew widespread public backlash.
Presidency Cites Logistical Constraints
In a statement addressing the criticism, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Strategy, explained that logistical challenges made it impossible for Tinubu to leave the airport.
According to Onanuga, the President had a tightly packed schedule, which initially included receiving Mahamat Idriss Déby and traveling to Iperu in Ogun State to commission the Gateway Airport. Although the Iperu trip was eventually canceled to accommodate the Jos visit, further complications arose upon arrival.
A major issue, he noted, was the absence of navigational aids at the Jos airport, making night flights impossible. With the 40-minute road journey to the city and the need to depart before dusk, officials deemed it impractical for the President to make the trip into town and return safely.
As a result, representatives of the affected communities were brought to a hall near the airport, where the President met with them alongside top security officials.
Tinubu Meets Victims, Promises Action
During the visit on April 2, 2026, President Tinubu interacted with victims of the attack, including a grieving mother who lost her son. He assured residents that such violence would not recur and tasked Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders with finding lasting solutions to the ongoing security challenges.
The attack, which occurred in the Angwa Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area, claimed at least 40 lives, including students. The incident triggered widespread outrage, protests, and the imposition of a government curfew.
Public Reaction and Growing Criticism
Despite the President’s assurances, his decision to limit the visit to the airport has continued to generate criticism. Many Nigerians questioned the symbolism of the move, arguing that a physical presence at the scene would have demonstrated stronger leadership and empathy.
The situation intensified after reports that the President spent only a brief period approximately 10 minutes before departing due to the airport’s operational limitations.
CCTV Proposal Draws Mixed Reactions
In the aftermath, Bosun Tijani announced plans to deploy 5,000 AI-enabled CCTV cameras across Jos to strengthen security infrastructure.
However, the proposal has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that technological solutions alone may not address the deeper causes of recurring violence in the region.
Media analyst Reuben Abati described the proposal as “unintelligible” during a broadcast discussion, reflecting broader concerns about the effectiveness of the response.
A Visit Meant to Reassure, Now Under Scrutiny
What was intended as a show of leadership has instead sparked a national conversation about crisis response, infrastructure limitations, and government priorities.
As reactions continue to pour in, the Jos visit underscores the growing demand for not just immediate responses, but comprehensive and visible action in addressing Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.
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