President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, intended to offer condolences to victims of the recent tragic attacks in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, has sparked widespread public outrage.
The deadly assault by suspected herdsmen claimed over 300 lives, and the nation expected a solemn and respectful response.
However, the somber occasion quickly devolved into a political spectacle. Reports emerged that schoolchildren were forced to stand along the streets in heavy rain, compelled to hail the president as he passed.
Instead of a quiet condolence visit, the streets were lined with groups holding placards emblazoned with images of President Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The signs carried messages that appeared to promote a campaign for a second term in office, turning a moment of mourning into a politically charged rally.
This blending of grief with political posturing has drawn sharp criticism from citizens and observers alike, who feel the government exploited a tragedy for political gain, disrespecting the victims and their families in the process.
Videos from the scene quickly went viral, sparking outrage across social media platforms.
“This is nonsense,” wrote Ogwuche Anderson Paul. “If my child were there, I would go pick them up.”
“Why should parents even let their children go to school today when they declared a public holiday?” asked Felix Shaibu.
“What a country,” lamented Anthony Q Da Singer.
“No be child abuse be this?” wrote Boaz Jachin in disbelief.
The criticisms intensified after a previously circulated message from Francis U. Ngutswen, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization, surfaced online.
The message called on support groups to come out en masse to welcome the President.
“At the instance of our dear Governor, His Excellency Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Leader of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State, kindly mobilize massively to give a rousing welcome to our President… A colourful shoulder-to-shoulder procession from the Airport to Wurukum Roundabout and down to Government House, Makurdi, is expected,” the statement read.
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