Tinubu’s Leadership Under Fire Over Benue And Plateau Massacres

Prince Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 elections, has openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging his failure to govern effectively in light of the escalating security crisis in Plateau and Benue States.

Adebayo voiced his concern during a conversation with Daily Post at a celebratory event in Abuja marking his wife Queen Lilian’s 50th birthday. He emphasized that the tragic resurgence of violence in both states reflects the government’s disregard for public safety.

“What’s alarming is not just the bloodshed but that Nigerians seem surprised by Tinubu’s inaction. It’s evident that this administration prioritizes electoral victories over effective governance. A president’s foremost duty is securing the nation,” Adebayo declared.

Calling for urgent action, he insisted that President Tinubu must revamp Nigeria’s deteriorating security framework to safeguard lives. He warned that continued complacency would lead to further national instability.

“We must stop treating security as a political game. What’s happening in Plateau and Benue is tragic, and the president needs to address it with a serious mindset,” he added.

In a related statement, Lagos State SDP Chairman, Hon. Femi Olaniyi Ferrari, echoed Adebayo’s sentiments. He urged Nigerians to embrace the SDP as a viable alternative for national transformation, lamenting that the promised “change” had only led to disappointment and suffering.

Meanwhile, in Plateau State, a significant protest was held by Christian leaders, including the state CAN Chairman, Rev. Polycarp Lubo. The demonstrators marched in opposition to the recent mass killings in Bokkos and Bassa LGAs, where over 100 individuals lost their lives in under two weeks.

Similarly, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, raised concerns about the state being under siege by violent armed herders, stressing that entire communities are being displaced.

These developments raise deep questions about Nigeria’s national security priorities and underscore the urgency for comprehensive reforms.

See our full report on insecurity trends across Nigeria