President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cancelled his scheduled diplomatic visits to South Africa and Angola following two disturbing security incidents that shook the nation within days; the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and an attack on worshippers in Eruku community, Kwara State.
Presidential sources confirmed to Truth Live News on Wednesday that the President, who was initially expected to embark on a multi-nation tour to strengthen bilateral ties and attend high-level meetings, opted to remain in the country to oversee the government’s response to the crises.
According to the Presidency, the abduction of 25 schoolgirls from a secondary school in Kebbi State has heightened national anxiety, drawing widespread condemnation from civil society groups, parents, and international partners. The incident, reminiscent of past school kidnappings in northern Nigeria, has once again spotlighted the country’s persistent battle against banditry and insurgent attacks on educational institutions.
Barely 48 hours after the Kebbi incident, gunmen launched a violent attack on worshippers during an evening service in Eruku community, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. Several people were reportedly injured, while the attack triggered panic across the region and renewed calls for strengthened community security mechanisms.
A senior presidential aide disclosed that President Tinubu was “deeply concerned” about the incidents and considered it inappropriate to embark on foreign engagements while citizens were in distress.
“The President has directed security agencies to mobilize all necessary resources to ensure the safe rescue of the schoolgirls and to apprehend the perpetrators behind both attacks,” the aide said.
