President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly condemned the recent killings in Plateau and Kaduna states, describing the attacks as “barbaric and cowardly,” and assuring Nigerians that those responsible will be brought to justice.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President denounced the assault by gunmen in Angwan Rukuba district of Jos, Plateau State, as well as the attack in Kahir village, located in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Tinubu said the incidents, which involved the killing of residents in Jos and the abduction and murder of wedding guests in Kaduna, represent “an affront to all that Nigeria stands for.” He stressed that such acts of violence against defenceless citizens would not go unpunished.
“Anyone who will sneak under the cover of the night and kill defenceless citizens as done in Jos and Kahir village is a heartless coward,” the President stated, warning that attacks on vulnerable communities are often aimed at provoking reprisals and escalating violence.
The President has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators, as well as clamp down on individuals spreading misinformation capable of inflaming tensions. He also cautioned sections of the media against prematurely attributing the attacks to religious motives.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to restoring peace, Tinubu noted that security agencies are actively addressing the situation and called on citizens to cooperate with authorities. He emphasized the importance of adhering to evacuation and relocation directives where necessary.
Tinubu also called for increased proactiveness among security operatives, particularly in acting on early warning intelligence to prevent further attacks. He ordered the immediate rescue of all remaining abductees from Kahir village, while commending the safe return of two victims.
The President praised Caleb Mutfwang for his efforts in containing the crisis in Plateau, and Uba Sani for supporting rescue and security operations in Kaduna.
He further assured both state governments of federal support, revealing that his administration is acquiring advanced equipment to enable security agencies track and neutralize criminal elements in real time.
Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the attacks.
