Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has blasted President Bola Tinubu for what he described as an insensitive and flamboyant visit to Benue State in the wake of a deadly massacre that claimed the lives of over 200 people
In a strongly worded post on his official X account, Obi condemned Tinubu’s appearance at the site of national tragedy, where the president arrived in a richly adorned agbada rather than in attire befitting a mourning occasion.
“The President arrived not in mourning cloth but in celebratory agbada attire, like it was an occasion for joy,” Obi wrote.
Obi said Tinubu’s visit failed to reflect the gravity of the situation, accusing the president of turning a moment of national sorrow into what resembled a political celebration. He said what should have been a solemn occasion became a display more suited for the commissioning of infrastructure.
“Rather than a reflective visit to mourn with families in Benue and Niger States, the president’s arrival looked more like a fanfare. In Benue, public schools were shut down and children were made to line the streets in the rain, singing and dancing, instead of grieving their murdered classmates.”
Obi expressed dismay at what he called the “carnival-like” nature of the condolence visit, saying it reflected a deeper moral crisis in the country.
“We have tragically arrived at a point where condolence visits have become carnivals. Precious Nigerian lives have been lost, yet we’re clapping, singing, and organizing processions, as though this were a campaign rally.”
He contrasted Tinubu’s approach with international examples, citing how South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted themselves during national tragedies—with silence, dignity, and swift action.
“When Ramaphosa visited after the floods, there were no drums, no staged crowds. Modi showed up to mourn after a crash without fanfare. That is what real leadership looks like in times of grief.”
Obi said the energy spent on organizing ceremonies could have been redirected toward real relief—such as food, shelter, trauma counselling, and education support for affected families.
“Our nation is bleeding, yet we are clapping. This is not only insensitive; it is dangerous,” he added. “These were human beings—children, mothers, fathers—whose blood cries out for justice.”
Obi concluded by urging Nigerians to reject this growing culture of political insensitivity, stressing that a more compassionate and accountable leadership is possible.
“A new Nigeria is POssible.”
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