By Passman Akpos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Jos, Plateau State, for an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally on Saturday was accompanied by scenes of public dissatisfaction after some residents were captured chanting “Ba ma yi”, meaning “We Don’t Want You” in Hausa, as his presidential convoy arrived at the rally venue.
Videos circulating on social media showed a section of residents waving their hands, shouting rejection slogans and expressing displeasure as the President’s convoy moved through the rally ground.
The chants reportedly continued for several minutes, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere around the presidential arrival and prompting security operatives to move towards the crowd to maintain order.
The incident attracted considerable attention online, particularly as the President’s visit was intended to mobilise political support for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Although APC supporters at the venue responded with songs and solidarity chants in an apparent attempt to drown out the voices of the protesters, the incident highlighted the contrasting reactions surrounding the President’s appearance in the state.
ANGER OVER INSECURITY AND ECONOMIC HARDSHIP
A major issue raised in connection with the residents’ dissatisfaction was the lingering anger over insecurity and the economic difficulties confronting families across Plateau State.
One resident reportedly attributed the public frustration to recent attacks in the state and the hardship experienced by ordinary people.
For communities that have experienced deadly attacks, displacement, loss of livelihoods and disruption of economic activities, security remains a major public concern.
Residents affected by violence have continued to demand meaningful protection, accountability and concrete measures to restore normal life in vulnerable communities.
The reaction captured in Jos raises questions about the expectations of residents and the extent to which political rallies are addressing the everyday concerns of affected communities.
VIRAL VIDEO SPARKS POLITICAL CONVERSATION
The footage has generated conversations across social media, with Nigerians debating the significance of the chants and what they could mean for the APC’s political mobilisation ahead of 2027.
However, the videos represent the reactions of some individuals and should not automatically be interpreted as the position of every resident of Plateau State.
For President Tinubu and the APC leadership, the incident presents another reminder of the importance of addressing citizens’ concerns beyond campaign speeches, political endorsements and organised rallies.
As the 2027 political season approaches, issues of insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians are expected to remain central to public political conversations.
Tarakirivoice Newspaper reports that the most important question is whether the concerns expressed by affected communities will receive concrete attention beyond political campaign promises.
