Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu faced mounting criticism after he addressed victims of the recent Plateau state violence at an airport, but failed to engage with local leaders or offer a comprehensive response to the crisis. The incident, which saw dozens killed and hundreds displaced, has reignited concerns over the government’s handling of communal conflicts and its alignment with broader African development goals. The President’s limited engagement drew sharp rebuke from local officials, including Mr Onanuga, a prominent leader in the region.
President’s Limited Response Sparks Outrage
During a brief visit to the airport, Tinubu met with families of the victims, offering condolences but not addressing the root causes of the violence. The move was seen as insufficient by many, particularly in Plateau, where tensions between farmers and herders have escalated in recent months. Mr Onanuga, a respected figure in the state, criticized the President for failing to engage with local leaders and for not acknowledging the systemic issues behind the violence. “This is not about a single incident — it’s about a pattern of neglect,” he said in a public statement.
The President’s office defended the visit, stating that it was a “gesture of empathy” but emphasized that the government was working with state authorities to restore peace. However, critics argue that such symbolic gestures do little to address the deep-rooted conflicts that have plagued the region for years. The lack of a broader policy response has raised questions about the government’s commitment to stability, a key component of Africa’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Plateau Violence: A Regional and Continental Challenge
The violence in Plateau is part of a larger pattern of conflict across Nigeria and the broader Sahel region. According to the Global Peace Index, Nigeria ranks among the most violent countries in Africa, with communal clashes and terrorism contributing to instability. These conflicts hinder economic development, disrupt education and healthcare access, and undermine governance. The lack of a unified national strategy to tackle such issues has led to fragmented responses, often leaving local communities to bear the brunt of the crisis.
Mr Onanuga has been vocal about the need for a more inclusive approach to conflict resolution. He has called on the federal government to invest in community-based dialogue and support for affected populations. “We need policies that prioritize long-term peace, not just short-term fixes,” he said. His stance reflects a growing demand across Africa for more participatory governance and localized solutions to development challenges.
What This Means for African Development
The situation in Plateau highlights the challenges many African nations face in achieving sustainable development. Conflicts like these not only displace populations but also divert resources away from critical sectors such as health and education. The African Union has repeatedly emphasized the importance of peace and security as a foundation for development, yet many countries continue to struggle with internal instability.
For Nigeria, the crisis in Plateau is a test of its ability to uphold its commitments under the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims to promote peace, security, and inclusive growth. The government’s response — or lack thereof — could have broader implications for its credibility and its ability to attract investment and international support. A failure to address these issues could also deter progress toward the SDGs, particularly those related to reduced inequalities and quality education.
What’s Next for Nigeria?
As tensions remain high in Plateau, the pressure on the government to take a more active role in conflict resolution is growing. Mr Onanuga and other local leaders are calling for a national dialogue that includes community representatives, religious leaders, and civil society organizations. They argue that only through inclusive and transparent processes can lasting peace be achieved.
Meanwhile, the international community is watching closely. The United Nations and regional bodies like ECOWAS have urged Nigeria to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the government will move beyond symbolic gestures and commit to a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to conflict resolution.
