By George Omagbemi Sylvester
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is facing intense criticism after his much-publicised visit to Plateau State was reportedly reduced to a brief airport-only appearance following the recent killings in Jos and Bassa, a move many Nigerians now see as politically tone-deaf and morally insufficient. The controversy followed his visit on Thursday, April 2, 2026, and was widely reported on Friday, April 3, 2026.
According to reports, Tinubu said he had only about 10 minutes in Jos because the airport lacked enough electricity for extended operations. He reportedly did not proceed to the affected communities or hospitals, even as outrage grew over claims that some grieving residents were instead moved to meet him near the airport.
The backlash deepened because the visit came after deadly attacks in which about 28 people were killed in Jos on March 29, while more than 50 others were reportedly slaughtered in Kimakpa village, Bassa Local Government Area.
In moments of mass grief, symbolism matters; but sincerity matters more. A president does not only govern through policy; he also governs through presence, empathy, and moral seriousness. Tinubu did announce new responses, including 5,000 surveillance cameras for Jos and a wider security push, but for many citizens, the larger damage had already been done.
In a country drowning in bloodshed, Nigerians are no longer impressed by fly-in condolences and choreographed appearances. They want a leader who does not merely arrive, but actually stands with the wounded where they fell.
Leave a Reply