President Bola Tinubu arrived at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi at approximately 12:58 p.m. on Wednesday for a condolence visit to Benue State in the wake of last Friday’s deadly attack on the Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area.
The attack, reportedly carried out by armed herdsmen, claimed the lives of over 200 residents and displaced thousands more, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed calls for decisive government action.
The President was welcomed at the airport by several dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. Also present to receive him were Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro and other federal lawmakers representing various constituencies within Benue.
Joining in the reception were governors from other North Central states, federal ministers, and senior government appointees, all of whom converged on Makurdi to show solidarity in the face of one of the deadliest attacks the state has witnessed in recent years.
Following the brief airport formalities, President Tinubu proceeded to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) to visit and sympathise with survivors of the attack. There, he interacted with those receiving treatment and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, pledging that justice would be pursued for the victims and their families.
After his visit to the hospital, the President continued to the Benue State Government House, where he is expected to participate in a critical town hall meeting with key stakeholders. This meeting is a central feature of his visit, aimed at addressing the root causes of the prolonged crisis between herders and local communities in the state.
The gathering is expected to include traditional rulers, political leaders, civil society representatives, and other key voices in the state. Their collective input will shape future security interventions and policy decisions as the federal government explores ways to bring lasting peace to a region long plagued by violence and instability.
President Tinubu’s visit is seen as a significant gesture in a tense moment, with many residents and observers hoping it will signal a turning point in the federal government’s handling of the security crisis in Benue and other parts of the country affected by similar attacks.
What You Should Know
President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Benue follows the massacre of over 200 people in Yelwata community by suspected herdsmen.
His condolence mission includes meetings with survivors at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and a town hall session with stakeholders at the Government House aimed at addressing the root causes of the violence.
