Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, on Monday, June 16, expressed concern over possible insiders collaboration in the ongoing attacks that have left communities in Benue State reeling from repeated violence.
During a visit to Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area, where over 100 people were killed by armed invaders on Saturday, General Musa revealed that security operatives suspect that some individuals within the affected areas may be aiding the attackers with sensitive information.
“In my estimation, it is one killing too many. We have observed that the way some of the burnings were carried out shows they were targeted. It indicates the presence of insiders compromising security efforts,” he said.
The defence chief said there was an urgent need to adopt new strategies and work hand-in-hand with local communities to prevent future attacks.
“We are going to change our strategies to look inwards. But we cannot do it alone. We need the communities to be part of this effort,” he stated.
He noted that the military had begun engaging traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community members to rebuild trust and encourage collaboration.
“There may be issues of trust and we are going to address them. We want this to be the last attack of this nature. We will go all out to ensure peace is restored,” he added.
Musa also disclosed that security strategies used in other troubled parts of the country would be replicated in Benue.
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He announced plans to visit Nasarawa State to improve coordination on cross-border security, a major concern in curbing armed incursions.
“We always receive information that these attackers are coming from across the borders. Wherever they are coming from, we will go after them. We must not wait for them to strike first,” he said.
Calling on young people not to despair, the CDS urged unity and resilience in defending the nation. “This is our country. We can never give up our country for anything. And this madness must stop,” he said.
Reacting to the visit, the Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Maurice Orwough, welcomed the military’s engagement, describing it as a source of renewed hope.
“The visit of the Chief of Defence Staff gives our people in Guma LGA a sense of hope. It shows that the Nigerian government is genuinely concerned about the situation in Benue State.
“This visit allows us to provide him with first-hand information about what is happening here and what we need,” Orwough said.
He added that the swift response from authorities had helped rebuild trust among residents.
“The quick response from the authorities gives our people some confidence that the government is paying attention. It is a sign of hope for us,” he said.