President Bola Tinubu has announced his intention to visit Benue State on Wednesday to sympathize with residents affected by the recent wave of deadly attacks.
The announcement comes amid growing criticism over the President’s silence and absence following the killing of scores of people in the state by suspected marauders.
“I will adjust my programme and go see Benue people on Wednesday,” Tinubu said on Monday during the inauguration of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network in the Federal Capital Territory.
The President expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones in the attacks and called on residents of Benue to remain united in the face of adversity.
He encouraged them to rise above division and embrace harmony.
He said, “He urged the people of the state to manage their diversity, anger, and frustration and live as one united people.”
Benue State, often described as Nigeria’s food basket, has faced persistent attacks believed to be carried out by suspected herdsmen.
While the violence has lasted for years, the past few weeks have seen a dramatic spike in killings, with over 160 residents reportedly murdered across several communities.
Tinubu’s planned visit follows widespread condemnation, including from prominent opposition leaders like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
They criticized the President for not visiting the state earlier and for what they described as the government’s inadequate response to the crisis.
Public outrage has intensified over the government’s handling of the situation.
Pope Leo XIV condemned the recent attacks, describing them as “extreme cruelty.” His statement added to the growing global concern surrounding the crisis.
Meanwhile, Nigerian youths have taken to the streets in protest, demanding an end to the bloodshed and urging the government to act decisively.
Opposition figures have not relented in their criticism.
Peter Obi accused the administration of “ignoring Benue” and said it reflected “no value for human lives.”
Atiku Abubakar also blamed the government for failing to protect citizens, saying, “We must hold leaders accountable.”
On Sunday, Tinubu directed Nigeria’s security chiefs to enforce his earlier instructions to restore peace in Benue.
Responding swiftly, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, arrived in the state on Monday with senior police officials and ordered the deployment of more tactical units to affected areas.
The IGP is expected to meet with Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and other key stakeholders before returning to Abuja.
Governor Alia, while addressing the situation, extended sympathy to all those affected, including families of the dead, the displaced, and farmers who lost their land.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaboration with the Federal Government, stating that he would work “to end the orgy of violence.”
