Benue Killings: Residents Connived with Assailants, Misled Troops During Attack
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has alleged that some residents of Benue State collaborated with the gunmen responsible for the recent deadly attack in the Yelwata community, which claimed the lives of over 150 people.
Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, Gen. Musa said the attackers were not only shielded by members of the community but were also given food, women, and intelligence that aided their operation.
“These criminals were harboured by people in the community. They were given food. They were even given women. They were guided on where the IDP camp was located. Yet, security forces received no information,” the Defence Chief said.
He explained that misleading information from local sources initially diverted military troops to other areas, enabling the gunmen to launch a swift hit-and-run assault on the Yelwata Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp.
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The CDS stressed the importance of trust and cooperation between security agencies and host communities. “This is why we consistently urge communities to be vigilant and report suspicious activities. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he added.
In response to the tragedy, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the full deployment of military and intelligence assets—including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and Department of State Services—to pursue and apprehend those behind the killings.
Gen. Musa also warned of the growing threat posed by Nigeria’s porous borders, revealing that weapons and fighters from conflict-ridden nations such as Sudan, Libya, and the Central African Republic are increasingly infiltrating the country.
He cited Pakistan’s use of a double-layer border wall along its border with Afghanistan as a model that Nigeria could consider to bolster national security.
Expressing deep sorrow over the killings, Musa offered condolences to the victims and their families. “These senseless killings weigh heavily on our hearts. We remain fully committed to ensuring justice and restoring peace to every part of Nigeria,” he assured.
By PRNigeria
