On the evening of June 17, workers were seen cutting grass and cleaning along one of Makurdi’s major roads. This was part of the Benue State government’s last-minute preparations for President Bola Tinubu’s visit.

President Tinubu is expected in Benue on June 18, just a few days after a shocking attack in Makurdi. Between the night of June 13 and the morning of June 14, more than 200 people were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen. The incident has caused great sorrow and anger across the state.

To prepare for the President’s arrival, the Benue State government declared June 18 a public holiday. Support groups and organisations were also invited to take part in a colourful welcome rally. The planned road show will stretch from the airport to the Wurukum roundabout and then to the Government House in Makurdi.

Overnight, clean-up efforts were intensified. Workers were hired to cut grass and tidy up the road leading from the airport. These efforts are meant to create a good impression as the President arrives.

But not everyone is pleased with the move. Some residents and observers are asking why the government is focusing on roadside cleaning instead of finding real solutions to the growing violence and killings in the state. They feel that making the city look neat won’t solve the deep security problems affecting the people.

The President’s visit may bring attention to Benue’s crisis, but many are hoping it will also bring serious action to end the attacks once and for all.