In the wake of one of the most heart-wrenching tragedies in Nigeria’s recent history, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to visit Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, following the gruesome massacre of innocent villagers in Yelewata and Daudu.
The attack, reportedly carried out by suspected armed herdsmen, left over 200 dead, dozens injured, and entire communities in shock and mourning.
A Visit Long Overdue
Originally scheduled to commission projects in Kaduna State this week, President Tinubu announced a last-minute change of plans, rescheduling Kaduna and prioritizing a first-hand assessment of the Benue tragedy.
“I will visit Benue on Wednesday,” Tinubu said. “We must respond with action, not just words.”
While many Nigerians welcomed the announcement, others say this response came too late—after the damage was done and pressure had mounted from both local and international communities.
Security Mobilized
In preparation for the visit, Tinubu ordered top security officials—IGP Kayode Egbetokun, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume—to deploy to Benue immediately.
A manhunt has also been launched for the perpetrators, with increased patrols and intelligence gathering already underway.
“We will not tolerate impunity. “The killers must be brought to justice,” one presidential aide noted.
Stakeholder Engagement
During the visit, Tinubu is expected to:
Meet with grieving families
Hold talks with traditional rulers, youth leaders, and religious heads
Unveil a comprehensive security and peace plan
Address the controversial grazing and land ownership issues that lie at the heart of many Middle Belt conflicts
This will be his first visit to Benue since assuming office—an opportunity to rebuild trust, if handled with genuine empathy and decisive action.
Nigerians React: “Too Little, Too Late?”
The massacre has ignited nationwide protests and backlash, especially on social media. Nigerians are using hashtags like #BenueMassacre, #JusticeForYelewata, and #EnoughIsEnough to express outrage.
Prominent voices have weighed in:
Peter Obi, former presidential candidate, slammed Tinubu for his delay:
“It took over 48 hours and immense pressure for the President to acknowledge the killings. We need a leader who reacts with urgency.”
Aisha Yesufu, activist, took it further:
“This isn’t just failure. This is a betrayal of Nigerians. Impeachment should be on the table.”
Pastor Paul Adefarasin of House on the Rock described the killings as:
“Heartbreaking and unacceptable. We must say ‘Enough is Enough!’”
International Attention
The tragedy has also drawn sharp condemnation globally. The United Nations, OIC, and Amnesty International have called for independent investigations and international accountability.
Diaspora groups are holding protests in London and Washington, D.C., demanding foreign governments place pressure on Nigeria to end rural violence and religious-based killings.
“Nigeria is bleeding, and the world must not look away,” one activist wrote.
Final Thoughts
The Benue massacre has become a defining moment in President Tinubu’s leadership. His visit may signal intent, but Nigerians want more than words. They want results. Justice. Peace.
This is more than a political trip, it’s a chance to rewrite the narrative of leadership in a nation tired of burying its citizens in silence.
