Defence Chief Didn’t Blame Benue Communities For Attack, DHQ Clarifies.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, did not blame Benue communities for the recent deadly attacks in the state, contrary to media reports. The statement, issued on Tuesday, addressed misinterpretations of Musa’s remarks during a security briefing, where he reportedly discussed the complex dynamics of communal conflicts and banditry in Benue. The DHQ described the reports as “misleading and taken out of context.”
According to the DHQ, General Musa had highlighted the need for collaboration between communities and security forces to combat banditry, emphasising that misinformation and lack of cooperation often exacerbate insecurity. The clarification comes amid heightened tensions in Benue, where over 200 people, including children, were killed in recent attacks attributed to armed herders. The PDP had accused the federal government of complicity, alleging that President Tinubu’s “lethargic” approach emboldens attackers.
The DHQ’s statement urged the media to exercise caution in reporting sensitive security matters, warning that distorted narratives could undermine public trust in the military. It reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to restoring peace in Benue and other troubled regions, with ongoing operations targeting bandit camps. The military also called on community leaders to provide actionable intelligence to aid security efforts.
The controversy highlights the challenges of addressing Nigeria’s multifaceted security crisis, where communal clashes, banditry, and misinformation often intersect. As Benue mourns its losses, the federal government faces increasing pressure to adopt a more decisive approach to the violence. The DHQ’s clarification may ease tensions temporarily, but the broader issue of restoring security in the state remains a daunting task.
