By Kolawole Ojebisi
The Benue State Government, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia, has declared Wednesday, June 18, 2025, a public holiday to mark the official visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Serumun Deborah Aber, on Tuesday.
According to the statement, the holiday is intended to give citizens “the opportunity to receive the president warmly”.
The statement, however, clarified that the directive excludes workers in essential services, including medical personnel, security agencies, and banking institutions.
“Residents across the state are encouraged to come out in large numbers to welcome the President and his delegation during what has been described as a significant and symbolic visit,” the statement added.
The New Diplomat had reported that Tinubu decided to tinker with his itinerary following the spate of killings that ravaged Yelewata and other communities in Benue state.
The incident led to the deaths of over 200 residents of the communities.
Tinubu announced that he would cut short his schedule to visit Benue State.
The president will use the opportunity to pay his condolence and commiserate with the government and people of Benue over the recent attacks.
