Makurdi, 18 June 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a solidarity visit to Makurdi, Benue State, this morning in response to the devastating attacks on Yelwata and the neighboring towns. The federal government’s dedication to tackling the security problem and promoting national unity was emphasized by the visit, which was motivated by the increasing violence that has resulted in thousands of displaced people and dozens of fatalities.
Senior government officials, traditional leaders, and Governor Hyacinth Alia greeted President Tinubu when he arrived at Makurdi Airport. As soon as possible, the President’s convoy moved on to the most severely affected areas, where the damage from the attacks is still evident. Tinubu personally visited the remains of burned-out houses, spoke with displaced people in makeshift camps, and examined continuing relief efforts. He offered his sincere condolences and promised that the federal government will step in right once to provide medical attention, lodging, and increased security for the impacted families.
Town Hall Conference with Involved Parties
At the Makurdi Local Government Secretariat, the President hosted a town hall meeting in the afternoon. Community leaders, parliamentarians, women’s organizations, traditional leaders, religious leaders, youth representatives, and security chiefs were all present at the event.
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President Tinubu stressed that “Benue’s peace is Nigeria’s peace” and referred to the Yelwata tragedy as “a wound on the nation’s conscience” in his speech. When facing the obstacles, he urged composure, collaboration, and solidarity.
Important Notices:
Security measures include creating a special local security task force, deploying federally supported mobile police units, and conducting aerial monitoring.
The approval of a ₦2 billion emergency fund to help survivors, repair houses, and restore livelihoods is an example of humanitarian support.
Peace Initiatives: All parties involved will be brought together for a long-term reconciliation in a federally supported peace summit that will be held in Benue.
Stakeholders’ Input
Representatives from the community urged for immediate relocation of displaced people to safer locations and improved cooperation in local security. They commended the federal government’s backing but called for prompt execution and broad involvement in peacebuilding.
Concerns about security plans, reconstruction schedules, and reconciliation procedures were addressed by Tinubu during an interactive session. He reaffirmed that community violence will not be tolerated by the government and that an interagency task team will closely monitor all promised initiatives.
A Request for Cooperation
In closing, the President made the impassioned request, “Let this pain bind, not break, our unity.” Nigeria is strengthened by Benue, and we shall all recover together. He called on all levels of leadership to put an end to divisive language and strive for lasting peace.
Perspective
Communities throughout Benue have expressed cautious hope in response to President Tinubu’s visit, which was characterized by empathy and firm promises. Although the President’s personal visit was welcomed, locals are eager for tangible steps that can turn pledges into enduring peace and security.
