Benue Pupils Allegedly Made to Cheer President Tinubu Under Rain During Visit Meant for Condolence

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent trip to Benue State on Tuesday has stirred widespread backlash after reports claimed that schoolchildren were allegedly made to stand in the rain to welcome him.

Tinubu’s visit was initially scheduled as a sympathy mission to console victims of the brutal attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, where suspected herdsmen had reportedly killed over 300 people.

However, rather than being a solemn condolence mission, the President’s presence seemingly transformed into a political showcase, as crowds lined major routes in Makurdi carrying banners adorned with images of President Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia. These signs were said to display messages that hinted at support for a second-term campaign.

Although the Benue State Government declared a public holiday across the state to mark the visit, reports emerged that students from public schools were mobilized to participate in the reception. Many were reportedly soaked under heavy rainfall while standing for hours to welcome the President.

Footage from the event swiftly circulated on social media, drawing massive criticism from Nigerians.

“This is nonsense. If my child were there, I would go pick them up,” commented Ogwuche Anderson Paul.

“Why should parents even let their children go to school today when a public holiday was declared?” questioned Felix Shaibu.

“What a country,” lamented Anthony Q Da Singer.

“No be child abuse be this?” wrote Boaz Jachin in outrage.

The criticisms intensified when a previously shared directive from Francis U. Ngutswen, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization, resurfaced online. The memo had encouraged political support groups to attend the welcome parade in large numbers.

The message stated:

“At the instance of our dear Governor, His Excellency Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Leader of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State, kindly mobilize massively to give a rousing welcome to our President… A colourful shoulder-to-shoulder procession from the Airport to Wurukum Roundabout and down to Government House, Makurdi, is expected.”