Tinubu Urges Lasting Peace in Plateau

….Approves N2bn Relief for Victims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on leaders in Plateau State to unite and find lasting solutions to the state’s recurring crises, as the Federal Government approved ₦2 billion in relief support for victims of recent violence.

At an interactive session held Tuesday at the State House in Abuja, the President urged stakeholders, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, to return home with open minds and commit to ending cycles of conflict rooted in indigeneship, religion, ethnicity, and farmer-herder tensions.

The meeting followed Tinubu’s earlier promise to engage Plateau leaders after the March 29 attack in Jos North Local Government Area. A 32-member delegation, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and youth representatives, attended the three-hour session.

During the meeting, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mohammed Dorro, announced the President’s approval of ₦2 billion for victims of the Angwa Rukuba violence.

Tinubu challenged leaders to revisit past White Papers on security crises and develop practical, implementable solutions. He emphasized tolerance, justice, and accountability as key to achieving sustainable peace.

“There must be tolerance for every inhabitant,” the President said, warning against the recruitment of individuals to incite violence. He urged leaders to identify and address those responsible for instigating conflict.

The President also called for stronger collaboration among leaders and encouraged the state government to draw on experienced figures across sectors to foster unity. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in Plateau.

Governor Mutfwang welcomed the initiative, describing the gathering as historic, noting it was the first time all former governors of the state had met together on such an issue. He pledged renewed commitment from leaders to overcome divisions and rebuild the state.

“Our coming here shows a renewed spirit on the Plateau,” Mutfwang said, adding that stakeholders were determined to rise above ethnic and religious divides.

Traditional ruler, the Gbong Gwon Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, praised Tinubu’s efforts and called for increased security presence, including deployment of more troops and installation of CCTV systems. He also advocated for state policing as a long-term solution to insecurity.

Youth representatives from both Christian and Muslim communities expressed commitment to peace-building efforts, while lawmakers highlighted the need for strict enforcement of the rule of law and addressing drug abuse as a driver of insecurity.

The session ended with a collective pledge from stakeholders to work toward lasting peace, with Tinubu urging continuous dialogue and actionable steps to prevent further loss of lives and property.