Photo: Atiku Abubakar
By Daniel Kanu
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent visit to Jos, Plateau State, alleging that the President failed to engage directly with victims of the Palm Sunday attacks.
In a statement issued Thursday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the visit as a “choreographed spectacle,” accusing the presidency of prioritising political optics over compassion for affected communities.
The former vice president expressed concern over what he called a growing disconnect between the federal government and citizens grappling with insecurity.
According to him, the President’s visit did not extend beyond the airport area, denying him the opportunity to meet grieving families or assess the situation firsthand.
“It is both shocking and deeply insensitive that several days after the gruesome killings, the President’s ‘on-the-spot assessment’ amounted to a brief stop at the foot of his aircraft, without reaching the affected communities or victims,” the statement said.
Atiku further alleged that the visit was shortened to enable the President travel to Lagos for the Easter holidays, describing the move as a troubling signal in the face of national mourning.
He also criticised the reported decision to transport some victims and residents to the airport to meet the President, rather than facilitating a visit to hospitals or affected areas.
“At a time when families are in mourning, such actions reduce a human tragedy to mere political theatre. It is inappropriate and undermines the dignity of the victims,” he added.
Drawing comparisons, Atiku referenced a similar visit to Benue State in June 2025, where he claimed the President did not reach the epicentre of violence in Yelwata, alleging that the exercise took on the character of a political rally rather than a condolence visit.
The former vice president maintained that while the President met with political leaders and traditional rulers during the Jos visit, there was no clear articulation of policy measures or decisive security interventions to prevent further attacks.
He stressed that Nigerians are increasingly frustrated with symbolic gestures, urging the government to focus on delivering concrete results in tackling insecurity.
“Nigerians are not asking for ceremonial appearances. They want safety, protection, and leadership that responds effectively in times of crisis,” Atiku said.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued an official response to the allegations.
However, government officials have previously maintained that presidential visits to conflict areas are guided by security considerations and advice from relevant agencies.
Security analysts have repeatedly called for a more coordinated response involving federal, state, and local authorities, alongside sustained community engagement, intelligence gathering, and humanitarian support for affected populations.
Observers note that beyond condolence visits, citizens expect stronger preventive strategies, improved security presence, and justice for victims as part of efforts to restore confidence in government’s ability to protect lives and property.
