- Secondary school students in Makurdi, Benue State, welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state, singing the national anthem and enduring water splashes from passing vehicles.
- The president’s visit comes amid recent attacks on communities in Benue State, causing widespread grieving among residents.
During President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Makurdi, Benue State, secondary school students were spotted standing in the rain, singing the national anthem as they lined the roadside to welcome him. Despite the downpour and splashes from passing vehicles, the students remained in formation, a scene that has sparked a wave of online reactions.
The President’s visit followed a series of violent attacks in parts of Benue that left numerous communities mourning. Tinubu had earlier observed a moment of silence on Monday during a public event, offering condolences to the bereaved families.
“I extend my sympathies to the people of Benue. I’ve spoken with the governor, and I urge the state’s leaders to embrace peace and unity. We are one big family living under one roof, even if in separate rooms,” Tinubu had said.
Fulfilling his pledge to personally visit the affected communities, Tinubu arrived in Benue on Wednesday. However, the sight of rain-soaked schoolchildren used as part of the welcoming protocol triggered criticism online.
The incident, which went viral after being posted on X (formerly Twitter), raised questions about the welfare of children during official visits and whether more considerate ceremonial practices should be adopted, especially in situations involving grief and harsh weather conditions.
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Reacting to the post…
@Trhymesz: “One day Nigerians will wake up, understand their rights & take their country back from these tyrants. Until then, they will only continue to be treated infelicitously by their callous leaders.”
@Jaysings001: “They are even standing on the road! But I thought today was public holiday?”
@j94626377: “If my kids are among those standing there I will make sure I change them to another school immediately what rubbish.”
@MESIGO422: “He will pass and not even flench an eye on them .. person wee clear him busy schedule just to see 200 people wee kpia under his administration.”
@ToniRhymze: “and many of these kids will go back home sick but death is not a new thing to the state government.”
@NasOricha_: “Leadership should be about empathy and timing. Asking children to stand in the rain after such a tragedy in Benue sends the wrong message. We need leaders who show compassion, not just presence.”
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