Tight security presence in Jos as Tinubu visits Plateau

Security was visibly heightened across Jos on Saturday as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Plateau State to attend the funeral of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentewa Yilwatda.

A field assessment by a correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) showed heavy deployment of personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian military at major junctions and entry points across the city.

The increased security comes as part of a broader effort to ensure a peaceful and orderly visit by the president.

> “The deployment is strictly a preventive measure to ensure that the President’s visit proceeds without incident,” said Mr. Alfred Alabo, Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO).

“All security heads in the state are actively patrolling and coordinating efforts to prevent any breakdown of law and order.”

Alabo added that certain key roads, including those leading to the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters, the venue of the funeral service, were temporarily closed to traffic during the visit.

> “We urge residents to be patient and cooperate fully with law enforcement personnel. These measures are in place solely for public safety,” he added.

The late Mama Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83, was laid to rest in Dungung, located in Kanke Local Government Area of the state.

Following the funeral, President Tinubu is also expected to hold a private meeting with Christian leaders in Plateau, according to a statement by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

Though the president’s visit is brief, its significance is seen as both a political gesture of unity and a moment of respect for the APC National Chairman’s family.

As residents adapted to the restricted movement around Jos, security officials remained on high alert, maintaining calm and monitoring key routes throughout the day.