Benue Declares Public Holiday as President Tinubu Visits After Massacre That Claimed 59 Lives

The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has declared Wednesday, June 19, 2025, a public holiday to welcome President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is visiting the state in the wake of a devastating attack that claimed the lives of at least 59 residents in Guma Local Government Area.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Joseph Alakali, who said the work-free day would allow citizens to honor the President’s visit and show solidarity during this time of grief.

“This is to enable the people of the state accord the President a rousing welcome,” the statement read.
“All Benue residents are enjoined to come out en masse to give Mr. President a rousing welcome.”

However, essential service workers are exempt from the holiday.

President Tinubu to Visit Guma, Meet Survivors

President Tinubu is scheduled to visit Yelwata, the epicenter of the most recent attack in Guma, where heavily armed assailants reportedly invaded the community at night, burning homes, shops, and even the local market. Survivors say many of the victims were trapped and burned alive.

Although official figures confirm 59 deaths, local sources fear the true toll may exceed 100.

The President is expected to hold a town hall meeting with survivors, displaced residents, traditional leaders, and security officials as part of efforts to address the escalating violence in the region.

Governor Alia: ‘This Is Genocide’

Following a visit to the massacre site last week, Governor Alia, joined by Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, condemned the attack in the strongest terms.

“This is indeed another black day in the history of our state,” the governor said.
“What has happened in this community is a clear case of genocide. Innocent people were killed in their homes, while some were burnt beyond recognition. We are tired of these attacks. This must stop.”

Tinubu Reacts: ‘Full Wrath of the Law Awaits Killers’

In a national statement, President Tinubu condemned the killings in both Benue and Katsina States, labeling them as “gruesome and unacceptable.”

“The security agencies have been given a clear directive to hunt down the perpetrators responsible for the heinous crimes in Katsina and Benue states,” the President stated.
“The full wrath of the law will be brought upon them.”

A Cycle of Violence That Won’t End

Benue, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has for years been the scene of recurring violence between herders and farming communities, often escalating into mass killings and displacements. This latest attack comes just weeks after 42 others were killed across four communities in the state.

The recurring bloodshed has reignited calls for a permanent security framework, one that not only punishes offenders but prevents such atrocities from occurring in the first place.

Many residents are hopeful that the President’s visit will not be just another symbolic gesture but a turning point toward real action and peace.

What can the federal government do to ensure lasting peace in Benue?
Let us know your thoughts below.