President Bola Tinubu on Thursday directed the installation of more than 5,000 surveillance cameras across Plateau State in response to the recent killings in Jos.

The directive was issued during a meeting with political and traditional leaders in Jos, coming days after the Palm Sunday attack in Angwan Rukuba that claimed over 27 lives.

Tinubu said the initiative would strengthen security operations by enabling law enforcement agencies to swiftly identify and track perpetrators. He asked the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, to provide details of the plan.

“We are going to immediately deploy a network of over 5,000 cameras to help law enforcement agencies identify troublemakers in real time,” the President said.

While acknowledging the pain of affected families, Tinubu noted that no amount of compensation could replace lost lives, but assured that the government would provide necessary support to victims.

He also charged security chiefs, including the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff, to intensify efforts in tracking down those responsible for the attack.

“I commend the men and women of the armed forces, particularly the police, for their efforts so far. But you must go further and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.

The President further announced plans to establish a committee to assess the extent of losses suffered by victims and recommend appropriate compensation. He said the committee would include the Plateau State governor and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs.

“Once we return to Abuja, the committee will begin work. We need a proper assessment of the losses. While we cannot replace lives lost, we will do everything possible to provide some relief to those affected,” Tinubu added.

Providing more insight into the initiative, Minister of Communications Bosun Tijani said the surveillance system would be powered by artificial intelligence and rolled out across the state, beginning with Jos.

According to him, the technology will enhance real-time monitoring and enable quicker responses to security threats.

“We will work closely with the state government to strengthen digital infrastructure, while deploying AI-powered cameras across Plateau, starting with Jos,” he said.

Tijani noted that similar systems are already operational in parts of the country, including Lagos and Enugu, where they have proven effective.

“This is not an empty promise. These solutions are already working in other states,” he added.

The minister also expressed concern over the persistent violence in Jos, describing it as troubling given the city’s long history of unrest.

“It is deeply painful that this is still happening after so many years. We will commit all available resources within the ministry to support efforts to restore lasting peace,” Tijani said.

Plateau State has experienced recurring violence over the years, often linked to communal and ethnic tensions. (Channels TV)