The Digest:
The presidency has explained why President Bola Tinubu met with victims of the Plateau state attack at Yakubu Gowon Airport rather than visiting the affected communities. In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, cited time and flight constraints. He said the runway does not support night flights due to a lack of navigational aids, making it unfeasible to drive into town and return before dusk. Tinubu had postponed a planned trip to Ogun state but could not reschedule a bilateral meeting with the Chadian president.
KEY POINTS (SO WHAT)- The explanation aims to counter criticism that the president lacked empathy.
- Logistical constraints at Plateau airport may hinder future presidential visits.
- The meeting with Chad's president prioritised security collaboration over local visits.
- A high-level security team had already visited Rukuba before Tinubu's arrival.
- Naysayers' criticism may persist despite the presidency's detailed defence.
Watch whether airport infrastructure in Plateau is upgraded to support night flights, and if future presidential visits follow a different protocol.
Sources: TheCable
