Tinubu Visits Benue, Meets Victims’ Families After Killings

President Bola Tinubu arrived in Benue State today, June 18, 2025, for a much-anticipated visit following last week’s deadly attack in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, where over 100 residents were killed by suspected armed herders. The president’s visit comes amid national outrage, mounting pressure on state and federal leaders, and urgent calls for security reforms to end years of bloodshed in the region.

A State in Mourning

Tinubu’s first stop was Yelewata, the village at the heart of Friday’s massacre. There, he met with grieving families, displaced persons, and local leaders, offering condolences and pledging federal support to those affected. The president also visited a hospital in Makurdi, where dozens of survivors are being treated for gunshot and burn wounds. Many of the victims were internally displaced people who had sought refuge in Yelewata after fleeing earlier violence.

Amnesty International and local officials report that at least 100 people were killed in the attack, with many more missing or wounded. Emergency workers say the true death toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue. The attack has left thousands displaced, seeking shelter in overcrowded camps, and has reignited fears of further violence as the rainy season—peak period for grazing and farming disputes—sets in.

Town Hall Meeting: Leaders and Stakeholders Gather

After visiting the victims, President Tinubu proceeded to the Benue State Government House Banquet Hall in Makurdi for a town hall meeting with critical stakeholders. The hall was filled with key political figures, traditional rulers, security chiefs, and community leaders. Attendees included governors from the North Central zone, the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, APC National Chairman Dr. Umar Ganduje, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, former governors, federal lawmakers, and representatives from all 23 local government areas.

Traditional rulers, elders, religious leaders, and civil society groups were also present, reflecting the urgency and gravity of the crisis. The state government had declared a public holiday to honor Tinubu’s visit, urging residents to come out en masse to welcome the president and show unity against violence.

Security Chiefs Mobilize, Manhunt Underway

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun had already arrived in Benue earlier in the week, launching a coordinated manhunt for the perpetrators. The military and police are working with local communities to track down those responsible for the attack, which officials describe as one of the deadliest in Benue’s recent history.

General Musa addressed community members in Yelewata, saying:

“We need Nigerians to support us. We must work together as a team. For the youths, please don’t give up. This is our country; we can never give up our country for anything. And this madness must stop.”

He promised to change military strategies and called for greater cooperation between residents and security agencies to restore peace.

Political Fallout and Assembly’s Self-Critique

The Benue State House of Assembly, in a rare moment of self-reflection, openly admitted that the governor, his deputy, and all lawmakers had not lived up to the people’s expectations in protecting communities from relentless attacks. Lawmakers described the killings as genocide and called for three days of mourning, full enforcement of anti-open grazing laws, and urgent support for displaced victims.

Thomas Dugeri, representing Kwande West, said:

“The Constitution of Nigeria provides that the essence of government is the protection of lives and property. We are 34 that are elected people in the state, the governor, deputy governor and 32 of us as lawmakers; we have all failed our people.”

The Assembly also urged the federal government to expedite action in ending the killings and requested the governor to mobilize local protection guards to complement security agencies.

National and International Response

President Tinubu’s visit is seen as a significant political gesture, with security experts noting that while it may not solve the crisis overnight, it sets a tone for renewed action and dialogue. The president had earlier postponed a trip to Kaduna to prioritize Benue, signaling the seriousness of the situation.

The United Nations and international community have condemned the attacks, calling for thorough investigations and justice for victims. Pope Francis and other global leaders have also expressed condolences and urged Nigerian authorities to restore peace.

Moving Forward: Hopes for Lasting Peace

With security chiefs on the ground, a presidential visit, and a united front among Benue’s leaders and communities, there is cautious hope for lasting solutions to the cycle of violence. President Tinubu has pledged to listen to all stakeholders and ensure that the federal government provides the necessary support to bring peace and justice to Benue.

As the town hall meeting continues and security operations intensify, the people of Benue and all Nigerians are watching closely, hoping that this tragedy will mark a turning point in the fight against communal violence.

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