In a significant show of concern and what looks like mounting pressures from several quarters over the ongoing violence in Benue State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has postponed his scheduled visit to Kaduna State to enable him travel to Benue on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the visit to Benue underscores the President’s commitment to peace-building and national security.
“President Tinubu will meet with all stakeholders—including traditional rulers, political leaders, religious figures, community representatives, and youth organizations—to chart a course for lasting peace in the state,” the statement said.
The President’s decision follows persistent unrest in parts of Benue, which has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement. During the visit, he is expected to hold a town hall meeting to directly engage affected communities and assess the scale of destruction.
In preparation for his arrival, the President has already deployed top government and security officials to Benue. These include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser, and heads of key intelligence agencies. Also dispatched are the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Defence, signaling a whole-of-government approach to tackling the crisis.
President Tinubu has previously condemned the violence in Benue, calling on all citizens to embrace peace and unity. He extended heartfelt condolences to victims and their families, while pledging stronger federal intervention to prevent further bloodshed.
Meanwhile, the President’s postponed visit to Kaduna, initially slated for June 18, will now take place on Thursday, June 19. He is expected to commission a series of state government projects during the trip.
The President’s visit to Benue is viewed by many observers as a critical step in restoring stability in one of Nigeria’s most crisis-prone regions.
