By: Manoah kikekon
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| Pope Leo XIV and Protesters in Benue |
Pope Leo XIV has condemned the horrific massacre in Benue State, where suspected herdsmen slaughtered entire families including children in a brutal overnight attack. Speaking before the Angelus prayer on Sunday, the pontiff expressed deep sorrow over the bloodshed, urging President Bola Tinubu’s government to ensure justice and security for victims.
The pope’s swift condemnation, issued by 2:00 p.m. WAT, intensified public anger toward Tinubu, who had yet to address the killings at the time. Nigerians lashed out at the administration’s apparent indifference, contrasting the pope’s immediate response with the president’s delayed reaction.
The presidency finally broke its silence at 9:38 p.m. on Sunday, ordering security agencies to apprehend the attackers. However, the delayed response drew fierce criticism, with many Nigerians accusing Tinubu of prioritizing international tragedies over domestic crises.
Social media erupted with outrage as citizens highlighted Tinubu’s swift condolences to India following a plane crash that killed over 200 people, while victims in Benue were initially ignored.
"You sent condolences to India immediately, yet Benue is bleeding under your watch!" – @AJ
"Has our president ever spoken up about bandits slaughtering Nigerians?" – @GFCLASIS
"Insensitive leadership! 200 Nigerians killed, yet no word from Tinubu." – Ola Michael