Tinubu’s Visit to Benue: Seeking Justice, Peace, and the Truth Behind the Land-Sharing Controversy

Benue State, often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” was once again plunged into mourning following a brutal attack on Yelewata community that left over 100 villagers dead and homes razed to the ground. In the wake of this senseless bloodshed, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a long-awaited visit to the state—marking a critical moment for both national leadership and local healing.

But amid his call for peace and justice, a wave of controversy erupted online, with claims that Tinubu proposed dividing land between farmers and herders. What really happened? Here’s the full story.

🔥 The Tragedy at Yelewata

In the early hours of June 13–14, 2025, gunmen—believed to be armed herdsmen—descended upon Yelewata, a rural settlement in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. Families were attacked in their sleep, houses torched, and lives lost in the most harrowing manner imaginable.

Local leaders and eyewitnesses reported over 150 fatalities, while some figures suggested as many as 200 dead. The scale of destruction was heartbreaking, and once again, it brought attention to the decades-old conflict between pastoralists and farmers in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

🛬 Tinubu's Arrival in Benue

Five days after the massacre, President Tinubu arrived in Makurdi, Benue’s capital. While he did not visit the actual site of the attack in Yelewata, he met with survivors, injured victims, and traditional leaders, addressing their pain with heartfelt promises.

🎙️ Key Highlights of Tinubu’s Message:

• “This senseless bloodletting must end.”
• “We will not rest until justice is served.”
• “No one has been arrested? Why? I want answers from our security chiefs.”

The president directed security agencies to intensify investigations, capture the attackers, and ensure swift prosecution. He also pledged federal support to rebuild the devastated communities.

🗺️ The Land-Sharing Controversy: What Was Actually Said?

Soon after his visit, social media exploded with claims that Tinubu had suggested sharing land between farmers and herders—a statement that immediately triggered political backlash and fears of forced land allocation.

✅ What Tinubu Did Say:

• “Find a lasting solution to the herder-farmer conflict.”
• “Establish systems that allow peaceful coexistence between communities and livestock owners.”

He alluded to modernizing the livestock sector—possibly referencing ideas such as ranching or grazing reserves. These have been part of federal policy under the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP).

❌ What He Did NOT Say:

• He did not say land should be forcibly “shared” with herders.
• He did not propose repealing Benue’s Anti-Open Grazing Law.

🔁 A Familiar Debate, Reignited

The herder–farmer crisis is not new to Benue. The state has borne the brunt of deadly attacks and land-use conflicts for over a decade. Attempts by past administrations to introduce RUGA settlements or cattle colonies were fiercely resisted.

That’s why even carefully worded statements from the president are often met with mistrust. In a region already feeling abandoned, any mention of “coexistence” or “livestock reform” can trigger fears of appeasement.

🛡️ What Benue Needs Now

Beyond presidential visits and speeches, Benue State needs action:

• Justice for Yelewata victims
• Security in vulnerable communities
• Clear policies that protect land rights
• Accountability from failed security agencies
• A genuine commitment to end impunity

President Tinubu’s visit was a step in the right direction—but it must not end with headlines. Benue is bleeding, and Nigerians are watching.

💬 Final Thoughts

The crisis in Benue is a test of leadership, justice, and unity. In moments like this, words matter—but actions matter more. The people of Yelewata deserve peace, justice, and the right to live without fear.

Until then, the nation watches.