Tinubu cancels Kaduna trip, to visit Benue amid killings

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cancelled his scheduled trip to Kaduna and instead made an unplanned visit to Benue State in response to the recent wave of deadly attacks in the region. Over 200 people were reportedly killed in separate attacks by suspected herdsmen in the Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue, prompting widespread outrage and urgent calls for federal intervention.

The President’s change of itinerary came as part of an emergency move to address the escalating violence. According to a statement issued by the presidency, Tinubu directed top security officials—including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and other key figures—to immediately proceed to Benue ahead of his visit. Their mission was to assess the security situation on the ground and coordinate a rapid response.

During his visit, President Tinubu met with traditional rulers, political stakeholders, religious leaders, youth representatives, and victims’ families. He expressed deep condolences over the loss of lives and assured the people of Benue that justice would be served. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending senseless killings and restoring peace in the state and other affected areas.

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The Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, had earlier described the attacks as barbaric and urged the federal government to take urgent action. Tinubu’s visit followed mounting pressure from various quarters, including religious leaders like the Sultan of Sokoto and the Christian Association of Nigeria, who decried the continued bloodshed in the region.

In a move to bolster security, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, also visited the state and deployed additional tactical forces to contain the violence and restore order.

President Tinubu’s decision to prioritise Benue over Kaduna reflects the gravity of the security challenges in the North-Central region. His visit is being interpreted as a strong signal that the federal government is taking the crisis seriously and is ready to take decisive steps to protect lives and property.