Outrage as Benue erects ‘thank you’ billboards for Tinubu amid massacre mourning

A wave of public outrage has erupted online following the emergence of a viral video showing billboards across Benue State thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his condolences just days after over 200 people were killed in a brutal attack in Yelewata.

The footage, captured by a visibly distraught citizen and widely circulated on social media, shows multiple banners bearing the message: “Mr. President, THANK YOU for CONDOLENCE with the Benue State people.” Set along a dark, deserted road, the displays has created fierce criticism over what many see as a tone-deaf political gesture in the face of unhealed wounds and a humanitarian tragedy.

The video begins with a close-up of one of the billboards, its bold white text and presidential image illuminated against the night. The narrator’s voice, filled with disbelief and emotion, questions the rationale behind such a move. “What level of madness is this?” he asks, as the camera reveals more of the same banners lining the road.

His commentary grows more intense as he condemns the decision to prioritize public relations over the grieving of hundreds of families. “Somebody, people died and you’re busy,” he says, before accusing officials of turning a moment of mourning into a veiled political campaign. “You are interested in doing campaign,” he adds.

The emotional high point of the clip comes when the narrator, overwhelmed by the scene, exclaims, “Oh God!”—a moment that has resonated with many Nigerians online who are expressing similar frustration over perceived government insensitivity.

Many social media users are now demanding accountability from the Benue State government for what they describe as a misplaced show of gratitude, while calling for concrete action and justice for the victims, not billboards.

President Tinubu is scheduled to visit Benue State as part of a one-day visit to commiserate with affected communities. However, the growing backlash suggests that beyond condolences, many citizens are looking for real solutions to the recurring violence and bloodshed in the region.