President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved N2 billion in relief support for victims of the March 29 attack in Angwa Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. The intervention aims to address the aftermath of the violence that left at least 28 residents dead.
Relief Package Announced
The development was disclosed in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mohammed Dorro, announced the relief package during a high-level meeting in Abuja.
Stakeholders Meeting
The meeting brought together a 32-member delegation from Plateau State to deliberate on long-term solutions to persistent security challenges in the region. This fulfilled Tinubu's earlier commitment to consult widely following the Angwa Rukuba attack.
Addressing participants, the President urged open dialogue and collective responsibility. "No protocols, no hinderances, we are here to speak our minds and find a permanent solution to a recurring conflict and chaos," Tinubu said.
Call for Unity and Peacebuilding
Tinubu emphasized the need for leaders across the state to work together in restoring peace, noting Plateau's history of coexistence among diverse groups. He encouraged stakeholders to return to their communities with renewed commitment to reconciliation and peacebuilding efforts.
Plateau Governor Welcomes Intervention
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the meeting as a significant step towards unity. "Our coming here today shows that there is a renewed spirit on the Plateau… we are determined to close all divides of religion and ethnicity," Mutfwang said.
He pledged the state government's readiness to implement resolutions aimed at sustaining peace and addressing underlying issues such as poverty and marginalisation.
Calls for Enhanced Security Measures
The traditional ruler of the Berom community, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, called for strengthened security presence and technological support, including the deployment of surveillance systems like CCTV. He urged accelerated discussions on the establishment of state police and appealed for federal support to facilitate the return of internally displaced persons, especially with the farming season approaching.
Broad Representation
The Plateau delegation included former governors Simon Lalong, Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Fidelis Tapgun, alongside political leaders, traditional rulers, security officials, and youth representatives. The meeting underscored renewed efforts by federal and state actors to tackle insecurity and promote lasting peace in Plateau State.
