Tinubu to Visit Benue on Wednesday After Deadly Attacks

President responds to mounting criticism over silence amid escalating violence in the state

President Bola Tinubu has announced plans to visit Benue State on Wednesday to condole with residents following last Friday’s deadly attack in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area, where scores of people were killed.

“I will adjust my schedule and visit the people of Benue on Wednesday,” the President stated on Monday during the inauguration of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network.

Tinubu expressed sympathy for the victims and urged the people of Benue to remain united despite their grief and frustrations.

During his visit, the President is expected to engage traditional rulers, political leaders, religious figures, community representatives, and youth groups in a town hall meeting aimed at addressing the root causes of the prolonged violence in the state.

In preparation for the visit, Tinubu has already dispatched key federal officials — including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Defence Committees — to Benue for consultations.

According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President's town hall meeting will serve as a platform for “seeking lasting peace and inclusive solutions.”

Mounting Criticism and National Outcry

Tinubu’s decision follows widespread backlash, with opposition leaders Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi condemning the President’s delayed response to the escalating violence in Benue. Both leaders criticised the federal government’s handling of security and urged it to fulfil its constitutional responsibility to protect citizens.

Over the past few weeks, Benue has experienced a relentless wave of violence allegedly carried out by suspected herdsmen. At least 160 people have been confirmed killed in recent attacks across several communities, further deepening fears in the agriculturally vital state.

The killings, often linked to land disputes between farmers and nomadic herders, have reignited national outrage, protests, and appeals for urgent federal intervention.

Even Pope Leo XIV joined the chorus of condemnation, describing the Benue attacks as a “terrible massacre” and “extreme cruelty.”

Security Reinforcements Deployed

On Monday, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun arrived in Benue alongside senior officers, where he ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical units to support operations on the ground.

He met with Governor Hyacinth Alia and other state stakeholders before returning to Abuja.

Governor Alia expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property and pledged his administration’s cooperation with the Federal Government to end the violence.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has instructed security agencies to urgently implement his previous directive aimed at restoring lasting peace to the state.