By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
URGENT SECURITY concerns in Plateau State forced a change in presidential movements as arrangements were made for an immediate visit to Jos following a briefing on recent attacks.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that President Bola Tinubu had planned to receive Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and proceed to Iperu in Ogun State, but suspended the Ogun trip after receiving a briefing from Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Overnight, the Presidential Villa arranged the Jos visit with rapid deployment of presidential assets, while the scheduled engagement with the Chadian leader could not be postponed.
The bilateral meeting at the Presidential Villa, focused on strengthening security collaboration, extended beyond its expected duration and affected the President’s departure.
Upon arrival in Jos, logistical constraints shaped the conduct of the visit.
The road journey from the airport to the township takes about 40 minutes, while the runway lacks navigational aids required for night operations. The conditions made it unfeasible to travel into town, meet victims, and return before dusk.
Government officials said they then moved representatives of the affected community to a hall adjoining the airport to enable the President to meet them promptly within the flight limitations.
Present at the meeting were the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Army Staff and the Inspector General of Police, who had earlier visited Rukuba, identified as the epicentre of the conflict.
President Tinubu had earlier deployed a high-level team to Rukuba, including the Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement, to undertake groundwork on security and community engagement ahead of his arrival.
JKNewsMedia.com also reports that beyond conveying condolences, the President engaged critical stakeholders on ending what was described as a recurring conflict that has resulted in loss of lives and property over decades.
He interacted with victims, listened to them and assured community leaders that the Federal Government would deliver justice and end the cycle of violence.
President Tinubu also promised the deployment of 5000 artificial intelligence enabled cameras to monitor the city and enhance the identification and arrest of troublemakers.
He further invited community leaders to Abuja for further discussions aimed at finding a lasting solution to the violence.
Presidential media team also noted that the meeting which was televised live, was described as solemn and reassuring, with residents’ confidence boosted following the engagement.
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