Plateau Residents Express Anger Over Hunger, Insecurity by Burning APC Campaign Materials

Residents of Plateau State expressed their frustration with hunger and insecurity by burning campaign materials distributed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) during President Bola Tinubu's presidential campaign rally in Jos. The materials, including crested caps and brooms, were set ablaze by residents who claimed they needed food, jobs, and security rather than campaign items. This act of defiance was captured in a video circulating on social media.

The residents accused the ruling party of making empty promises and failing to address the economic hardship and insecurity affecting the state. One resident was heard saying, "We are hungry. We don’t need caps and brooms. We need food, jobs and security." Another resident accused the APC of failing the people of Plateau, particularly in the aftermath of recent attacks that left several families homeless.

The burning of campaign materials came amid an alleged unfriendly reception for Tinubu at the rally, as some members of the crowd reportedly booed the President shortly after his arrival. Some residents were heard shouting, "We don’t want you" and "Ba ma yi", a Hausa expression meaning "We don’t want you". Others were seen waving their hands and turning their backs as the President’s convoy moved through the rally ground.

Despite the initial unfriendly reception, Tinubu addressed the party's supporters, promising to rebuild communities affected by violence in Plateau State and facilitate the return of residents displaced by attacks. He also appealed to residents to forgive him for failing to visit the affected communities during his previous trip to the state in April.

Tinubu acknowledged that his previous visit was limited to the airport, but said he had seen the devastation caused by the attacks and received reports from Governor Caleb Mutfwang. He assured displaced residents that the Federal Government would support the reconstruction of their communities and facilitate their return.

The President called on residents to embrace unity, insisting that ethnic and linguistic differences should not divide them. He emphasized the importance of living together, farming together, and building the country together. Tinubu's remarks came about seven months after his visit to Plateau State following the March 29 attack on Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area, which left at least 27 people dead.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents of Plateau State, including hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship. The APC's failure to address these concerns has led to growing frustration among residents, who are demanding tangible solutions rather than campaign promises. The government's response to these concerns will be crucial in determining the future of the state and its residents.

Key points

• Residents of Plateau State burned APC campaign materials, citing hunger and insecurity as their main concerns.
• President Bola Tinubu promised to rebuild communities affected by violence and facilitate the return of displaced residents.
• The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents of Plateau State, including hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship.