President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, visited survivors of the brutal massacre that occurred last Friday in the Yelwata community of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the President touched down at the Tactical Air Command, Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi, around 12:58 p.m., and proceeded directly to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.
The President’s visit was in response to the gruesome attack that claimed over 200 lives, with dozens more wounded in a coordinated onslaught by suspected herdsmen.
Upon arrival at the hospital, Tinubu met with the injured victims, who are currently receiving medical attention, before heading to the new Banquet Hall at the Benue State Government House.
There, he was scheduled to hold a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders and security officials in the state to address the continuous wave of killings that have rocked the region.
To mark the occasion, the Benue State Government declared a public holiday, allowing residents to either welcome the President or stay safe amid heightened security.
Eyewitnesses from Yelwata described the early morning attack as “strategically coordinated.” Armed assailants reportedly split into three tactical groups, surrounding and penetrating the village from multiple directions.
Residents said the attackers fired in turns to confuse and overpower the local vigilante groups and state security operatives.
The deadly assault left behind scenes of horror, burnt homes, mass graves, and families searching for missing loved ones.
Tinubu’s visit follows intense national and international condemnation of the attack, prompting urgent calls for justice and the deployment of more robust security measures across Benue communities.
In a related development, reports earlier on Wednesday revealed that Benue schoolchildren were allegedly made to stand under the rain, waving and chanting praises as the President’s motorcade passed, sparking outrage on social media platforms.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, C.P. Umar, disclosed that several attackers have already been arrested.
According to the police chief, the apprehended suspects were found with AK-47 rifles and other dangerous weapons, affirming that law enforcement is actively pursuing justice.
However, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has praised Tinubu’s peace efforts, urging both farmers and herders terrorists in Benue to embrace dialogue and stop the cycle of violence.
As investigations continue, human rights organizations and local advocacy groups have called on the Federal Government to intensify relief efforts for displaced families and provide compensation for victims.
More updates to follow as Tinubu’s visit unfolds.
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