Makurdi, Benue State — Amid fresh grief and loodshed following deadly attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen, a rally organized in support of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia has sparked widespread public criticism across Benue State.
On Thursday, a coalition of youths and women under various pro-Tinubu and pro-Alia banners took to the streets of Makurdi, the state capital, advocating for the re-election of both leaders in 2027. The demonstrators marched through major roads and later converged at the Government House roundabout, hoping to be addressed by Governor Alia.
The rally, however, came on the heels of a tragic attack in Mtsewnem and Akondutyough communities in the North Bank area of Makurdi on Wednesday night, where gunmen believed to be armed herders killed several residents and injured dozens more.
The Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) has since issued an urgent call for blood donations as it struggles to save the lives of injured victims still receiving treatment.
While the rally proceeded with chants and placards in support of the current administration, many residents expressed shock and outrage at what they described as an “insensitive” display in the wake of fresh violence and loss of lives.
Critics argue that the timing of the rally shows a lack of empathy for victims and affected families, some of whom are still searching for missing loved ones or arranging burials for the dead.
“This is not the time for celebrations or political rallies,” a visibly distressed local told Daily Post. “Our people are dying. The government should be prioritizing security and justice, not second-term campaigns.”
As the state continues to grapple with recurring attacks and an overwhelmed healthcare system, calls are growing louder for decisive government action to end the cycle of violence and restore security to rural communities.
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