Despite a wave of deadly violence sweeping through communities in Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia has declared Wednesday, June 18, a public holiday to receive President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is scheduled to visit the state for a one-day commiseration tour.
An official memo signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Serumun Deborah Amber, and obtained by Africa Health Report, stated that the holiday is “in honour of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR,” who is expected to visit “to commiserate with the government and people over incessant security crises.”
The statement noted that essential services — including health workers, security agencies, and banks — would remain operational during the public holiday.
While the visit is officially described as a gesture of solidarity with victims of violence, the tone of preparations has sparked public outrage, with critics pointing to a disconnect between the celebratory mood and the grim security realities in the state.
A separate letter dated June 17, signed by Hon. Francis Ngutswen, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization, directed support groups to assemble for a ceremonial procession along the President’s route. According to the directive, support groups are to form a “colourful shoulder-to-shoulder spread/procession from Airport to Wurukum Roundabout and down to Government House Makurdi,” where the President will attend a Town Hall meeting.
The letter also instructed group leaders to liaise with the Governor’s Office for accreditation “strictly by the numbers and colours,” emphasizing an organized display of support.
The holiday declaration comes at a time when many parts of Benue are reeling from continued attacks by suspected armed herders, which have led to widespread displacement and loss of life. Humanitarian agencies report deteriorating conditions in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, where thousands of residents are still struggling to access food, shelter, and basic medical care.
President Tinubu is expected to hold meetings with key stakeholders in Makurdi during his visit and propose measures to address the ongoing security crisis. However, the optics surrounding the planned reception have raised questions about the state government’s priorities amid persistent violence and humanitarian distress.
