Benue Killings: President Tinubu Arrives In Makurdi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reached Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, in anticipation of his visit to the Yelwata community located in the Guma Local Government Area of the state.

Tinubu touched down at the Tactical Air Command, Nigerian Air Force Base, Makurdi, at approximately 12:58 pm.

The President is anticipated to engage with key stakeholders in the state regarding the violent incidents that have resulted in fatalities.

In light of the visit, the state government has announced a public holiday.

According to reports, the President will initially travel to Yelewata in the Guma Local Government Area, where gunmen executed a horrific attack last Friday, resulting in the deaths of at least 100 individuals and displacing many others.

Amnesty International, along with local officials, has characterized this massacre as one of the most severe incidents the state has experienced in recent years.

President Tinubu is anticipated to engage with mourning families, displaced individuals, and community leaders who have suffered greatly due to the violence. Additionally, he will visit the hospital where survivors are being treated for gunshot wounds and burn injuries.

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After his visit to Yelewata, Tinubu will head to the Government House Banquet Hall in Makurdi to lead a town hall meeting that will include key stakeholders from various sectors, including political, security, traditional, and civil society.

Expected attendees at the meeting include governors from the North Central zone, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, APC National Chairman Dr. Umar Ganduje, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who is a former Governor of Benue.

In attendance are former Governor Samuel Ortom (2015–2023), members of the APC National Working Committee, federal lawmakers who represent the affected communities, and members of the Benue State House of Assembly.

Traditional rulers from throughout the state, the Executive Chairmen of all 23 Local Government Areas, religious leaders, party executives, and representatives from civil society organizations have all been gathered for the session.

The assault on Yelewata village took place late on Friday, June 13, when heavily armed individuals invaded the community, firing indiscriminately and igniting homes.

Amnesty International, along with state officials, has reported that more than 100 villagers lost their lives, with many still missing. Numerous victims were internally displaced persons who had previously escaped violence in surrounding regions, only to find themselves caught in another fatal attack.

Emergency responders have confirmed that hundreds of survivors are suffering from various injuries, while the state government has initiated a manhunt for those responsible for the attack.