Tinubu MisBriefed on Benue Massacre, Says Shippers Council CEO

Barrister Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu lacked a full briefing before commenting on the June massacres in Benue State. Speaking to journalists in Makurdi on July 3, 2025, Akutah called for calm and renewed public support as security efforts intensify.

Akutah affirmed that Tinubu reacted swiftly once he received accurate information, but early statements drew widespread criticism, highlighting a briefing gap. “Governors provided the right context, and the president’s tone changed,” he explained .

The Benue atrocities, including the tragic Yelewata attack that claimed approximately 150 lives, shocked the nation. Tinubu later sought reconciliation with Governor Hyacinth Alia and SGF George Akume during a high-level meeting aimed at peaceful resolution.

Akutah urged patience, asserting the president’s commitment to lasting solutions. He underscored Tinubu’s track record, including the immediate removal of fuel subsidies and a pivot to non-oil economic sectors—moves seen as painful yet necessary to reposition Nigeria’s finances.

Echoing public concerns, civic group Citizen Monitors criticized the government’s response as lacking empathy and urgency, demanding accountability and justice for the victims. Opposition leaders like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi had earlier condemned Tinubu’s delayed reaction and called for decisive leadership .

Akutah highlighted the urgency of addressing misinformation and political division in Benue. He noted that with proper intelligence and cooperation among stakeholders, the administration can restore peace, emphasizing that Tinubu is genuinely working to heal the nation.

He concluded with a message of hope: Nigeria just endured a sharp shock, but a healing process has begun. Akutah said citizens will soon witness the steps leading to genuine recovery and national unity.