President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday arrived in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, for a condolence visit to victims of the recent killings in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of the state.
The president, who landed at the Air Force base in Makurdi at about 12:58 pm, was received by Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and other top government officials.
Tinubu is expected to proceed to Yelewata where over 100 persons were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen in a night attack last Friday. He will also visit injured victims at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH).
Ahead of his visit, the president had condemned the attack, describing the killings as “inhuman and senseless.” He promised to visit the state to personally commiserate with the people and assess the situation.
The presidency had earlier dispatched a high-powered delegation including secretary to the government of the federation George Akume, national security adviser Nuhu Ribadu, inspector general of police Kayode Egbetokun and other top security officials to Benue to pave the way for the president’s visit.
The delegation also met with Governor Alia and held consultations with traditional rulers, religious leaders and security agencies.
At the time of the incident, several homes and shops were also razed, with survivors claiming the attackers stormed the market late at night, setting fire to structures where many were sleeping. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said over 3,000 people were displaced.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia declared a three-day mourning period from June 18 to June 20, calling on security agencies to fish out the perpetrators and ensure justice for the victims.
Benue has experienced recurring violence between farmers and suspected herders, with Guma LGA among the worst-hit areas in recent years.
President Tinubu is also expected to host a townhall meeting at Government House, Makurdi, where he will meet with stakeholders including community leaders, security chiefs and civil society organisations.
This marks Tinubu’s first official visit to Benue since assuming office in May 2023.