Amid backlash over the Benue government’s planned “rousing and colourful” welcome for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Hyacinth Alia has apologised. 

Mr Alia said the colourful dress code was a mistake.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Francis Ngutswen, the governor’s senior special assistant on special groups mobilisation, tendered an apology per the “colourful” dress code while Benue people are in a state of shock after experiencing a massacre allegedly orchestrated by herdsmen.

“I write to sincerely apologise for the misinformation issued on social media regarding dress code for tomorrow’s (today) presidential visit to Benue State,” Mr Alia’s aide said. “My deepest apologies for the incorrect or confusing guidance. I recognise the importance of clear and accurate communication.”

Mr Ngutswen added, “Tomorrow is black all through. Benue State is yoked with pains andmy action wasn’t meant to add salt to our injury. We are in mourning and our appearance will reflect our mood, hence, black attire.”

Public outrage followed Mr Alia’s directive conveyed in a letter signed by Mr Ngutswen recommending mourning residents to give Mr Tinubu a rousing and colourful welcome to the state on Wednesday, barely three days after hundreds were killed in Yelewata in Guma LGA.

A human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, posted the letter on X, saying, “The people of Benue State who are being slaughtered, have been told by their unserious governor to come out happily and colourfully and welcome the same President Tinubu who has failed to protect them.”