President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced plans to suspend all official engagements to visit Benue State on Wednesday.
This is to show solidarity with victims of the recent wave of deadly attacks that have claimed over 160 lives.
The President made this pledge on Monday while commissioning the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project in the Federal Capital Territory.
“I will adjust my programme and go see Benue people on Wednesday,” Tinubu said, expressing deep sympathy for grieving families and communities affected by the violence.
The president urged residents of Benue to remain united and manage their diversity despite the pain and frustration caused by the attacks.
“I sympathise with the people of Benue State and all who have lost loved ones in these attacks,” he said. “Please, manage your anger and frustrations. We must live as one united people.”
The announcement follows mounting pressure from opposition leaders and citizens alike, who have criticised the President’s delay in visiting the conflict-ridden state. Notably, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi have condemned the government’s response to the crisis, accusing the administration of failing to show adequate concern.
Benue State, widely regarded as Nigeria’s food basket, has in recent years witnessed frequent and deadly attacks by suspected herdsmen. In recent weeks, violence has surged across several communities, leaving dozens dead and displacing thousands.
