Tinubu Set To Visit Benue State WednesdayTo Console Victims Of Guma Tragedy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to visit Benue State on Wednesday, June 19, to personally console the victims and families affected by the recent wave of violent attacks that claimed over 200 lives in Guma Local Government Area. The announcement was made Monday during the commissioning of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6.

The tragic incident, attributed to rampaging herdsmen in Yeluwata village, has left communities devastated, reigniting national discourse around security, displacement, and interethnic harmony. Tinubu’s visit signals federal acknowledgment of the region’s suffering and a move toward healing and conflict resolution.

Tinubu Emphasizes “Togetherness” Amid Benue Grief

In his speech during the commissioning in Abuja, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the killings and extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Benue. “I sympathize with the people of Benue. I have spoken to the Governor. The leadership and people of Benue should accept our condolences and try hard—very, very consciously—to maintain peace and harmony among themselves,” he said.

Reiterating his commitment to national unity, Tinubu likened the Nigerian population to a large family. “We are one single, huge family living in the same house, staying in different rooms,” he noted, underscoring the importance of tolerance and empathy in navigating diversity.

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The President also used the occasion to encourage Nigerians to manage their anger and frustrations in a peaceful and constructive manner. He called for resilience from those directly affected by the killings and urged all citizens to support peaceful coexistence across ethnic and religious divides.

His planned visit will mark his first to the state since the violent incident occurred and comes amid increased pressure on federal authorities to address the spate of violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.

Security and Support in Focus Ahead of Presidential Visit

As preparations for the presidential visit intensify, security agencies have reportedly been deployed to ensure order and protection during his tour of the affected communities. The Benue State Government has also commenced preliminary arrangements to receive the President and facilitate his interaction with displaced families and traditional leaders.

Meanwhile, civil society organizations and local leaders are urging the federal government to go beyond condolence visits and deliver decisive action against the perpetrators of such attacks. They are calling for robust community policing, justice for victims, and stronger national frameworks to protect vulnerable populations from recurring violence.

President Tinubu’s presence in Benue is expected to serve not just as a gesture of solidarity but as a commitment to peace and a signal that federal support for recovery and justice is on the horizon.