President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, to assess the aftermath of recent violent attacks that claimed the lives of at least 59 people and displaced over 3,000 residents in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area.
Touching down at the Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Air Force Base at 12:58 p.m., the President commenced a high-stakes visit centered on peace, security, and humanitarian response. The state government declared a public holiday to mark the significance of the visit.
As part of his itinerary, President Tinubu is expected to visit affected families, injured victims, and displaced persons, before presiding over a major town hall meeting at the Banquet Hall of the Benue Government House. The meeting aims to forge a path toward a lasting solution to the crisis in Benue’s rural communities.
In attendance are key figures including Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume; service chiefs; governors from North-Central states; National Assembly members, and traditional rulers from various ethnic blocs in Benue.
Also expected are the 23 Local Government Chairmen, members of the State House of Assembly, Elders’ Council, religious leaders, and top officials of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly those representing the worst-hit areas.
The town hall reflects the President’s wider effort to engage directly with communities and stakeholders amid growing concern over renewed violence.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has vowed to hunt down the perpetrators. Acting on the President’s orders, he instructed military commanders to identify and dislodge known criminal hideouts before further attacks occur.
“We must go after them. We shouldn’t wait until they come to attack people again,” General Musa declared in Makurdi during a security meeting with traditional rulers.
The killings have drawn national and international outrage, including condemnation from Pope Leo XIV and leaders of the political opposition.
President Tinubu’s visit is seen as a significant step in showing federal resolve to end the violence and bring justice and stability to Benue communities.