NIGERIA: Tinubu Condemns Plateau Killing of Travellers, Orders Arrest of Perpetrators

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly condemned the killing of 12 travellers in Plateau State, describing the attack as “unacceptable and barbaric,” and has directed security agencies to swiftly arrest and prosecute the perpetrators.

The victims, identified as wedding guests, including the father and brother of the groom, were travelling from Zaria, Kaduna State, to Jos, Plateau State, on Friday, when they were ambushed and attacked. Several others were also injured during the assault.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the recurring violence in Plateau and emphasized the need for decisive action by both state and federal authorities.

The statement reads: “The Government of Plateau State must take decisive action in handling these vicious cycles of violence. The state government must work with security agents to get to the root of this recent incident and use it as a deterrent against future occurrences.”

Tinubu reiterated the constitutional right of all Nigerians to move freely without fear or intimidation, stressing that his administration would not condone attempts by any individual or group to infringe on that freedom through violence.

He said: “Freedom of movement by all citizens is non-negotiable. We will not tolerate any attempt by anyone or group of people to curtail that fundamental freedom through acts of extreme violence and fear.”

He directed the Nigerian Police Force to collaborate with other security and intelligence agencies to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

While calling for calm, Tinubu assured the public that the federal government would not allow the “dastardly act” to go unpunished.

The President also extended his condolences to the families of the victims, and to the people and government of Kaduna State, from where the victims originated.

Security agencies are yet to confirm the identity of the attackers or make arrests as of press time.