President Bola Tinubu has expressed regret to residents of Plateau State over his failure to visit communities affected by the deadly Anguwan Rukuba attacks during his previous trip to the state.
Titiansloaded reports that the President offered the apology on Saturday while addressing supporters at the All Progressives Congress (APC) North-Central presidential campaign rally in Jos.
Tinubu explained that his previous engagement in the state was restricted to the airport, leaving him unable to visit the affected communities and interact directly with residents who suffered losses.
He asked Plateau residents to pardon his absence, acknowledging that his inability to reach the communities may have disappointed those expecting a visit.
The incident followed the March 2026 attack on Anguwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area, where at least 20 people were reportedly killed and several others sustained injuries.
During his April 2 visit to Plateau, Tinubu met with victims’ families at Jos Airport, offered condolences and promised that the tragedy would not happen again.
However, his decision not to visit the affected communities attracted criticism from residents and other Nigerians. His spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, subsequently explained that a previously scheduled meeting with the President of Chad affected the President’s movement.
Speaking at Saturday’s rally, Tinubu said reports from Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the destruction caused by the violence had given him an understanding of the suffering experienced by affected residents.
He also assured the people that the government would support the reconstruction of damaged communities to enable displaced residents to return to their homes.
On security, the President disclosed that he had instructed security agencies to intensify their operations and take necessary measures to prevent further violence across Plateau State.
Tinubu said the government was determined to replace the atmosphere of fear and destruction with peace, economic growth and improved living conditions.
He maintained that the purpose of government was to improve the welfare of citizens rather than allow communities to remain trapped in violence, poverty and instability.
The President also revealed that 1,000 forest guards were undergoing training as part of efforts to strengthen security at the community level.
According to him, the personnel would be deployed to improve protection in rural settlements and help residents feel safer in their villages and surrounding communities.
Tinubu expressed confidence that the security initiative, alongside other government interventions, would contribute to restoring lasting peace across Plateau State.
