CDS Musa’s Comments on Benue Killings Twisted, Never Blamed Victims – DHQ Clarifies
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked reports suggesting that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, blamed victims for the tragic attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where over 200 lives were reportedly lost.
In a statement released on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, clarified that General Musa’s comments were deliberately taken out of context by the National Coalition Against Mass Killings and Impunity (NCAMKI).
“We categorically state that the interpretation and portrayal of the CDS’s comments by NCAMKI, as reported, are both misleading and taken out of context. At no point did General Musa blame the victims or justify the heinous crimes committed by criminal elements in Benue or elsewhere,” the statement read.
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Brigadier General Gusau noted that the CDS had merely highlighted the complex challenges security forces face in conflict zones, particularly how criminal groups exploit community vulnerabilities. According to him, General Musa’s remarks were meant to encourage community vigilance, stronger cooperation with security agencies, and unity against violent actors.
“It is regrettable that advocacy groups would distort such a sensitive issue and politicize national security matters. General Musa remains deeply committed to protecting all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity or religion, and continues to promote professionalism, compassion, and civil-military cooperation,” the DHQ spokesperson added.
The military further rejected characterizations of the CDS’s comments as “reckless or provocative,” stressing that such claims undermine the Nigerian Armed Forces’ efforts in managing volatile security situations across the country.
While acknowledging the right of citizens and groups to express concerns, the DHQ urged all stakeholders to verify information and refrain from spreading narratives that could inflame tensions or erode public trust.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to justice, accountability, and partnership with communities, civil society, and government agencies to restore peace and stability nationwide.
By PRNigeria
