President Tinubu to Visit Benue Over Renewed Killings, Set to Hold Strategic Stakeholder Meetings

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rescheduled his planned visit to Kaduna State and will instead travel to Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, in response to the recent outbreak of deadly violence in the region.

According to the Presidency, the visit is part of renewed efforts to address the ongoing security crisis and foster lasting peace in Benue, where over 200 residents have reportedly been killed in recent days. The violence has triggered widespread outrage and heightened tensions across affected communities.

In a statement released Monday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the President’s visit is aimed at gaining a firsthand assessment of the situation and engaging directly with key stakeholders.

“President Tinubu will meet with traditional rulers, political leaders, religious figures, community heads, and youth groups during his visit. The objective is to seek inclusive and lasting solutions to the persistent hostilities,” Onanuga said.

In advance of the trip, President Tinubu has already dispatched a high-level delegation to Benue. This includes 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.

The President is also expected to hold a town hall meeting in Makurdi, where he will hear directly from affected residents and local leaders.

Tinubu has consistently condemned the escalating violence in Benue and has called on all parties to embrace peace, unity, and mutual respect. He also extended condolences to the families of the victims and those displaced by the crisis.

Originally scheduled to visit Kaduna State on Wednesday, June 18, to commission several state projects, the President will now undertake that visit on Thursday, June 19, according to an updated itinerary.

His decision to prioritize Benue comes amid public criticism, including from opposition leader Peter Obi, who faulted the President for not visiting Benue and Niger states earlier despite deadly incidents in both areas.