President Bola Tinubu has rescheduled his official visit to Kaduna State and will now travel to Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, to assess the aftermath of the recent massacre and push for lasting peace in the region.
According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the President’s visit to Benue is part of a renewed effort to address the persistent conflict affecting communities in the state.
According to Amnesty International and local officials, at least 100 residents were killed, dozens are still missing, and hundreds injured after suspected armed herdsmen launched a coordinated attack on Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area between late Friday night and the early hours of Saturday.
Several homes were reportedly set ablaze, with many of the victims being internally displaced persons who had earlier fled similar attacks in other parts of the state.
Reacting to the development, President Tinubu had earlier described the killings as “inhuman and anti-progress,” warning political and community leaders in affected areas against making unguarded statements that could escalate tensions.
Onanuga stated that the President’s upcoming visit will allow him to personally assess the situation and consult widely with stakeholders on the path forward.
He said Tinubu will meet with traditional rulers, political figures, religious leaders, youth groups, and other community stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the hostilities.
Ahead of the visit, Tinubu has already dispatched top officials—including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Defence—to Benue State for preliminary assessments.
The President is also expected to hold a town hall meeting during his visit, where he will listen directly to the concerns of residents and victims’ families.
President Tinubu has repeatedly condemned the cycle of violence in Benue State and urged all Nigerians to embrace peace, love, and mutual respect.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and pledged the federal government’s commitment to securing lives and property.
Originally, Tinubu was scheduled to visit Kaduna State on Wednesday, June 18, to commission various state government projects.
However, that visit has now been shifted to Thursday, June 19, 2025, to accommodate his urgent trip to Benue.
