[Breaking] Insecurity: Tinubu Postpones Trip to G20, AU-EU Summits
By Naija Enquirer Staff
President Bola Tinubu has postponed his scheduled trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, and Luanda, Angola, as he awaits further security briefings on the kidnapped Kebbi schoolgirls and the attack on Christ Apostolic Church worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.
Immediate Response to Security Breaches
In response to requests by the governor of Kwara State, President Tinubu ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to Eruku and the entire Ekiti Local Government Area, directing the police to pursue the bandits responsible for the attack on worshippers.
The President was initially scheduled to depart Abuja to attend the 20th G20 Summit in South Africa, followed by the 7th AU-EU Summit in Angola. However, concerns over the recent security incidents prompted the postponement of the trip.
Presidential Briefings and Oversight
According to a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President is awaiting reports from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who visited Kebbi on his behalf, as well as briefings from the police and the Department of State Services regarding the attack in Kwara.
President Tinubu reiterated his instructions to security agencies to do everything possible to rescue the 24 schoolgirls abducted by bandits in Kebbi State and ensure their safe return.
Reaction to Abductions and Attacks
In reaction to the recent spate of terrorist attacks and schoolgirl abductions, President Tinubu said:
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes.”
“I am also depressed that heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls. I have directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi State.”
Kebbi Schoolgirls Abduction
The abduction in Kebbi involved 24 students from a girls’ boarding school in the state. The incident has triggered nationwide outrage and prompted immediate security interventions, including increased military and police patrols in affected areas.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has visited the site on behalf of the President, offering reassurances to parents and local authorities that all efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of the girls.
Attack on Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku
Separately, a violent attack by bandits targeted worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State. President Tinubu ordered enhanced security deployment in the area, stressing that perpetrators must be brought to justice.
Balancing Domestic Security and International Engagement
President Tinubu’s postponed trip underscores the government’s recognition of the urgency of domestic security challenges. While foreign summits such as the G20 and AU-EU meetings are critical for Nigeria’s global positioning, national security remains the immediate priority.
The Presidency has emphasized that once security assurances are in place, the President will resume his international engagements. Meanwhile, security agencies have been directed to intensify operations in affected regions to prevent further incidents.
Public Response and National Concern
The postponement has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Many citizens have welcomed the decision as responsible, prioritizing the safety of schoolchildren and citizens over diplomatic trips. Others have expressed concern over the persistent security challenges across multiple states, reflecting broader anxieties about safety and governance in Nigeria.
