Schoolchildren in Makurdi, Benue State, were made to line the streets in the rain to welcome President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, despite the state government declaring the day a public holiday.
The children, some in soaked uniforms and visibly splashed by vehicles, stood along the roadside while singing the national anthem in poor weather conditions, as seen in different videos obtained by First News.
The president was visiting Benue to offer condolences and discuss security measures following a recent gun attack in Yelewata community that left about 200 people dead. However, the decision to involve children in the ceremonial welcome has drawn sharp criticism.
Images and videos shared online sparked outrage, with many questioning why minors were exposed to such treatment during an event tied to national mourning.
READ ALSO: Benue Declares Wednesday Public Holiday for Tinubu’s Visit
Observers called the move “disturbing,” noting that political symbolism appeared to take precedence over child safety.
The fact that the day had already been declared a public holiday only heightened public concern, with some Nigerians questioning the decision to mobilise schoolchildren under such conditions.
Benue State has been battling insecurity, including attacks by armed groups and communal clashes. Tinubu’s visit was seen as a gesture of solidarity, but the optics of children soaked and standing in the rain have clouded its impact.
As of press time, neither the Benue State Government nor the Presidency had issued any official comment on the use of schoolchildren in the ceremony.