President Bola Tinubu is facing mounting criticism over his handling of the recent mass killings in Benue State, with commentators pointing to a series of leadership failures that have allowed violence to linger in the area.
What did President Tinubu get wrong? According to critics, First is the failure to enforce directives. Critics argue that if security chiefs disregarded previous presidential orders, they should have been dismissed. Disobedience without consequences weakens your authority as Chief.
The second issue is the mischaracterization of events. Labeling the killings as “reprisal attacks” is seen as misleading, given that the victims were unarmed farmers murdered in their sleep. This is genocide, not retaliation.
The third point highlights false equivalence, rejecting any suggestion of a clash between warring parties. This is a one-sided assault on peaceful communities. The fourth is a flawed call for dialogue, with the President criticized for asking victims to negotiate with unidentified killers.
Also flagged is passing the blame, following yet another directive for arrests. What assurance is there that this one will be followed any more than the last? Finally, a lack of visible leadership, asserting that while Governor Hyacinth Alia has a role, the ultimate responsibility rests with the President. The message is clear: symbolic orders and rhetorical appeals will not suffice. What is needed is decisive, accountable leadership in the face of ongoing bloodshed.
