Nigeria: Criticism for Tinubu Attending Wedding Without Visiting Kwara Massacre Victims
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu faces backlash for attending a wedding shortly after a massacre in Kwara State, instead of visiting the victims' families.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been criticized for prioritizing attendance at a wedding over addressing the aftermath of a tragic massacre in Kwara State. Just days after a violent attack in Woro, which resulted in over 100 deaths, Tinubu attended the wedding fatiha of the children of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. While he was the main guest at this significant event, the broader public sentiment is one of disapproval, particularly in light of the ongoing suffering felt by the victims' families and the community.
The massacre, which has left many people missing, raises concerns about security and government responsiveness in Nigeria. Following the incident, Tinubu condemned the attack and directed military action against the perpetrators, but critics argue that his attendance at a lavish wedding undermines his efforts to show solidarity with affected communities. Vice-President Kashim Shettima led a delegation from the federal government for a condolence visit, yet many believe that a visit from the president himself would have demonstrated deeper empathy and commitment to addressing the situation.
Social media reactions, particularly in response to a post by Matawalle thanking Tinubu for his presence at the wedding, have amplified the criticism. Observers note that the juxtaposition of the wedding ceremony β attended by high-ranking officials and dignitaries β against the backdrop of grief in Kwara encapsulates a troubling disconnect between the government and the citizens it serves. This incident could have significant implications for Tinubu's administration if it affects public perception and trust, especially regarding his commitment to tackling insecurity in the region.