What was billed as a solemn presidential condolence visit to Benue State turned controversial on Tuesday, after reports emerged that schoolchildren were allegedly forced to line the streets in the rain to welcome President Bola Tinubu.
President Tinubu visited Makurdi following the deadly attacks in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, where over 300 people were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen.
The visit was expected to provide comfort to victims’ families and explore lasting solutions to insecurity in the state.
However, viral videos and eyewitness accounts from Makurdi show schoolchildren and support groups standing along major roads, drenched by rainfall, waving placards with pro-Tinubu and pro-Governor Hyacinth Alia slogans—some of which bore messages perceived as campaign-style endorsements.
Despite the statewide public holiday declared for the visit, critics argue that pupils from government-run schools were mobilized for the roadside welcome, sparking public outrage.
“This is nonsense. If my child were there, I would go pick them up,” wrote one parent, Ogwuche Anderson Paul, on X (formerly Twitter).
The backlash intensified after a mobilization directive surfaced online. The statement, credited to Francis U. Ngutswen, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization, instructed support groups to stage a “colourful shoulder-to-shoulder procession” from the Airport to Government House in honour of the President.
“At the instance of our dear Governor… kindly mobilize massively to give a rousing welcome,” the message read.
Social media users and civil society groups have since condemned what they described as the politicization of tragedy and child endangerment, questioning the rationale behind such displays during a visit meant for mourning and healing.
As at press time, neither the state government nor the presidency had officially responded to the controversy.
President Tinubu, during his visit, is scheduled to meet displaced victims, families of the deceased, and community stakeholders as part of a broader peace-building initiative.
