President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria will visit Benue state on Wednesday following the recent killing of more than 200 residents of the north central state by herdsmen, a statement by his office said on Monday.
Tinubu has been criticized for his inaction by opposition leader, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, who pointed to the actions of presidents in India and South Africa after similar crisis that claimed the lives of citizens in those country.
“President Bola Tinubu has rescheduled his official visit to Kaduna State. Instead, he will travel to Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as part of renewed efforts to foster peace and address the persistent conflict affecting communities in the state,” a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga read.
The statement noted that the President’s visit aims to assess firsthand the recurring crisis that has claimed numerous lives and caused significant destruction.
“During his stay, President Tinubu will meet with all stakeholders—including traditional rulers, political, religious, community leaders, and youth groups—to seek lasting solutions to the hostilities,” the statement said.
In preparation for the visit, Tinubu has already dispatched 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 State.
The President is expected to hold a town hall meeting with all stakeholders during the visit.
“Tinubu has previously condemned the ongoing violence in Benue State and called on all leaders and residents to embrace peace, love, and mutual understanding. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to all those who have suffered losses as a result of the crisis,” the statement said.
According to his itinerary released over the weekend, President Tinubu was scheduled to visit Kaduna State on Wednesday to commission various state government projects. However, the official visit will now occur on Thursday, June 19, 2025.
