President Bola Tinubu met with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday evening, as the federal government intensifies efforts to address escalating violence in the state.
The meeting, which began around 6:45 p.m., focused on immediate security measures following recent deadly attacks. The most devastating incident occurred on Palm Sunday in Angwan Rukuba, Jos, where at least 27 people were reported killed. Tinubu had earlier summoned Mutfwang to discuss the worsening situation and explore strategies to prevent further bloodshed.
The President had already condemned the Jos attack and another assault in Kahir village, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where wedding guests were killed and abducted. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the killings as “barbaric and cowardly.” He vowed that those responsible would face justice.
“Anyone who sneaks under the cover of night to kill defenceless citizens is a heartless coward,” Tinubu said. He directed security agencies to intensify operations against the perpetrators and praised Governor Mutfwang for his efforts to contain the crisis.
Tinubu also cautioned against framing the attacks as religiously motivated. He warned that such narratives could inflame tensions and worsen violence in an already fragile environment. His remarks reflect concerns that misrepresentation of the incidents could deepen divisions and undermine peace-building efforts.
The meeting underscores the federal government’s determination to strengthen coordination with state authorities in tackling insecurity. For Plateau State, which has faced recurring communal clashes and armed attacks, the engagement signals renewed attention from Abuja.
Governor Mutfwang’s presence at the Villa highlights the urgency of the situation. With communities reeling from loss and fear, both federal and state leaders are under pressure to deliver concrete solutions. The discussions are expected to lead to enhanced deployment of security personnel, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger collaboration between agencies.
The attacks in Jos and Kaduna have drawn national outrage, reinforcing calls for decisive action. Tinubu’s intervention, coupled with Mutfwang’s local efforts, marks a critical step in restoring confidence among affected communities. The outcome of their meeting will likely shape the next phase of Nigeria’s broader security response as the country grapples with persistent violence across several regions.
