Outrage in Plateau Over Venue of Presidential Condolence Visit

Residents of Plateau State have criticised the handling of President Bola Tinubu’s visit following the killing of more than 30 people in Gari Yawaye, Angwan Rukuba, in Jos North Local Government Area.

The President arrived in the state on Thursday after the Palm Sunday attack but did not proceed to the affected community. Instead, he addressed stakeholders at Yakubu Gowon Airport before departing.

The decision to hold the engagement at the airport, far from the scene of the violence, drew immediate reactions from residents who expected a direct visit to victims and affected families.

Many said the arrangement fell short of what they consider appropriate during a crisis, arguing that leaders should physically engage with survivors in hospitals or communities impacted by the attack.

On social media, several residents expressed frustration over the location of the meeting. One commenter, Kacholom Luka, questioned why injured victims were not part of the presidential visit, noting that engagement at the airport did not reflect the severity of the incident.

Other reactions were strongly critical. Bright Gyang described the setting as detached from the reality on the ground, arguing that a more meaningful visit would have included hospital visits to survivors. Joel Poret also faulted the approach, saying affected communities were excluded from direct engagement.

Some residents recalled previous presidential visits to other states affected by violence, suggesting a recurring pattern in how condolence visits are conducted.

However, a few commenters noted that presidential presence during crises can still offer reassurance, even when visits do not extend to affected communities.

The attack in Gari Yawaye left dozens dead and several others injured, adding to ongoing concerns over insecurity in parts of Plateau State.