Tinubu mandates rollout of 5,000 AI-powered CCTV cameras to curb Plateau insecurity

PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has directed the deployment of 5,000 artificial intelligence-driven surveillance cameras across Plateau State as part of efforts to strengthen security and tackle rising violence.

The directive follows a deadly attack on Sunday in Angwan Rukuba, located in Jos North LGA, where about 28 people were killed and several others sustained injuries.

During a visit to Jos on Thursday, the president commiserated with affected families, noting that no form of compensation could truly replace the lives lost in the tragedy.

In a statement released after the visit, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that Tinubu instructed top security officials, including Christopher Musa, Waidi Shaibu, and Olatunji Disu, to identify and apprehend those responsible for the killings.

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The president also assigned Bosun Tijani to supervise the immediate rollout of the surveillance infrastructure, working closely with the Plateau State government and security agencies.

According to the statement, the installation will begin in Jos before extending to other parts of the state, building on similar systems already implemented in Lagos and Enugu.

Expressing concern over the violence, Tinubu said he was disturbed by footage circulating from the attacks, adding that only divine intervention can bring solace to grieving families. He stressed that financial compensation cannot make up for lives lost.

The president assured residents that the government would pursue justice and provide support to victims, directing Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Bernard Doro to compile detailed records of those affected to ensure fair distribution of relief materials.

Highlighting the need for preventive strategies, Tinubu questioned why past incidents had not yielded lasting lessons, noting that leadership must prioritise peace, security, and inclusive development.

He reaffirmed his commitment to creating stability, particularly for young people, stating that his goal is to build peace rather than repeatedly console victims of violence.

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In response, Governor Caleb Mutfwang said Plateau had experienced relative calm before the March 29 attack, describing the incident as a setback. He praised security agencies for their efforts and expressed confidence in improved outcomes.

Similarly, Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Nentawe Yilwatda, said the president’s visit would boost the morale of security agencies, help curb further attacks, and bring comfort to affected families.