President Bola Tinubu has condemned the recent killings in Plateau and Kaduna states, describing the attacks as “barbaric and cowardly,” and has ordered security agencies to pursue the perpetrators without delay.
The violence occurred on Sunday, when gunmen attacked Angwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, killing at least 12 people. In Kaduna State, assailants struck Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area, leaving several others dead and causing panic among residents. Eyewitnesses reported that some of the attackers were dressed in military uniforms, opening fire indiscriminately in crowded areas.
In a statement released by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the killings and abduction of wedding guests in Kaduna as an affront to all that Nigeria stands for. He directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the attackers and curb the spread of misinformation that could inflame tensions.
“I urge our security agencies to be more proactive in preventing these attacks by acting on early warning intelligence. All the remaining abductees from Kahir village must be rescued immediately,” Tinubu said.
The president also commended the efforts of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State in supporting rescue and containment operations, assuring citizens of the federal government’s full support. He emphasized the acquisition of sophisticated equipment to enhance real-time tracking and neutralization of criminals.
Governor Mutfwang, meanwhile, stated that Plateau State will not succumb to fear or intimidation, noting that the victims were law-abiding citizens caught off guard by the attacks.
The attacks follow increased concern over insecurity in parts of Plateau and Kaduna, areas that have experienced repeated outbreaks of violence linked to land disputes, ethnic tensions, and religious differences. Civil society and opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, have urged the government to take substantive action beyond statements to address these killings.