ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Plateau State has drawn sharp criticism after opposition voices accused him of neglecting grieving communities still reeling from waves of deadly attacks across the North Central region.
Critics, led by opposition figure Atiku Abubakar (AA), described the President’s appearance at a political event in Plateau as “a sad reflection of misplaced priorities,” arguing that Tinubu has consistently failed to visit or directly console victims of persistent insecurity in affected states.
“At a time when families in Plateau continue to bury their loved ones, the President chose to attend a political gathering rather than stand with the people in their darkest hour,” Atiku said in a statement on Saturday. “It is a heartless exhibition of disregard for empathy, compassion, and the dignity of human life.”
He accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership of “feasting where the people find pain,” adding that Tinubu’s visit highlighted what he called a growing disconnect between the federal government and citizens enduring violent attacks.
The former vice president cited recent incidents in Benue, Niger, and Kwara states as examples of the government’s “failure to show solidarity,” noting that even during Tinubu’s symbolic trip to Benue in June, the President “did not step foot in Yelewata — the epicentre of the massacre.”
Atiku’s remarks come amid mounting public frustration over recurring violence in the North Central region and the government’s perceived slow response to rural insecurity.
“The message could not be clearer,” Atiku said. “This is a President who would rather feast than feel — a leader who finds pleasure where the people find pain. The Nigerian people are watching, and they will remember.”
As of press time, the Presidency had yet to issue a response to the statement.
