Former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has called for an urgent overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, urging the Federal Government to adopt a more decisive, people-centered approach in the wake of deadly attacks in Angwa Rukuba, Plateau State.
During a condolence visit to the affected community, Adebayo described the killings as a stark failure of protection systems, warning that continued lapses could erode public confidence in governance.
He stressed that beyond rhetoric, leadership must demonstrate empathy and swift action in times of crisis.
“When tragedy strikes, that is when government must be seen, must be felt, and must act decisively to protect and comfort its people,” he said.
Adebayo insisted that security agencies must be strengthened through improved intelligence, logistics, and closer collaboration with local communities, describing such synergy as critical to preventing further bloodshed.
He vowed that perpetrators must be brought to justice, emphasizing that impunity only fuels recurring violence.
“There can be no excuse for the killing of Nigerians. Those responsible must be tracked and held accountable,” he stated.
Calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take bold steps, Adebayo said the incident should mark a turning point in national security response, urging a system where every citizen feels protected regardless of location.
Meanwhile, the District Head of Angwa Rukuba, Haruna Bala, painted a grim picture of the attack, revealing that the community was left vulnerable with little or no security presence as assailants operated unchecked.
He appealed for the urgent upgrade of the local police facility, deployment of adequate personnel, and provision of modern equipment to enable rapid response to emergencies.
Describing Angwa Rukuba as a diverse, commercially active settlement, Bala warned that failure to reinforce security could further endanger lives and livelihoods.
The incident has renewed calls for coordinated action between federal and state authorities, with stakeholders insisting that only a combination of strong leadership, effective policing, and community partnership can restore lasting peace to Plateau and other troubled regions.