Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State, describing it as lacking compassion and failing to acknowledge the tragic loss of lives. Obi expressed disappointment over the President’s conduct, comparing the visit to a political rally rather than a solemn condolence trip.
Obi urged that the President should have shown leadership by visiting Benue and Niger states to offer support to families affected by the tragic loss of over 200 lives due to violence and flooding. He noted that the atmosphere during the visit felt celebratory rather than mournful, pointing out that the President arrived in celebratory attire instead of mourning clothes.
He condemned the decision by the Benue State Government to declare a public holiday for the visit, stating that it turned into a spectacle with children rehearsed to perform for the President instead of mourning their lost loved ones. Obi lamented that condolence visits have become events marked by fanfare rather than reflection.
He contrasted Tinubu’s visit with the approaches taken by leaders in other countries, emphasizing the importance of genuine mourning and respect for the deceased. Obi warned that the current trend of turning tragic incidents into celebrations erodes the nation’s integrity.
During the visit, President Tinubu instructed security agencies to take action against those responsible for the violence and visited victims receiving treatment at a local hospital.
