The Benue State Government has officially declared Wednesday, June 18, a public holiday in honor of the scheduled visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is expected in the state on a one-day condolence trip following a series of violent attacks that left hundreds dead in recent weeks.
The announcement was made in a press release issued by the Benue State Government House, urging citizens to turn out en masse to receive the President and show solidarity during this period of mourning.
“This visit is a moment of national importance,” the statement read. “We call on all peace-loving citizens of Benue to come out and welcome the President as he visits to commiserate with victims and reassure our people.”
The government clarified that essential service workers including medical personnel, security operatives, and emergency responders are excluded from the public holiday and are expected to report for duty as usual.
President Tinubu’s visit follows mounting national outrage and grief over the recent massacre in Yelwata and surrounding communities, where suspected armed groups killed more than 200 civilians in coordinated attacks. The tragedy has once again placed Benue State at the center of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
The visit, officials say, will include a condolence meeting with Governor Hyacinth Alia, engagements with local leaders and affected families, and a security briefing with military and police commanders in the region.
Benue residents are hopeful that the President’s presence will lead to increased federal support, deployment of more security personnel, and meaningful interventions aimed at restoring lasting peace.
“We are not just mourning. We are also watching closely,” said one resident in Makurdi. “We want actions, not just condolences.”
Security will be heightened across the state capital and major towns in preparation for the President’s arrival.
